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The aim of this study was to evaluate the morphological and biochemical maturation of the thyroid gland in human neonates. The mean iodine concentration in the thyroid gland of very premature infants (less than 32 weeks gestational age, 0-3 days survival, η = 12) was significantly lower than in the older group (34-41 weeks gestational age, 0-30 days survival; η = 15; ρ <0.05). For the whole group of neonates there was a statistically significant linear correlation between duration of life, i.e. gestational age and survival, and iodine concentration (r = 0.64, ρ <0.01). Although there was wide dispersion of the results the same tendency was seen for thyroglobulin (Tg) concentration in the thyroid gland (r = 0.52, η = 21; ρ <0.05). Comparative histological examination of the fetal thyroids gave results in accordance with the biochemical data as intrafollicular colloid appeared to be more abundant in more mature thyroids. The iodine content in Tg was found to be 0.63 ± 0.22% in very preterm neonates and was slightly but not significantly lower than that found in the thyroids of the older group (0.82 ± 0.14%; ρ = 0.055). The content of T 4 and T 3 per Tg molecule in the neonates was related to the iodine content. The differences in mean values of Ti/Tg and Ti/Tg molar ratios between the two groups were not significant: T4: 2.8 ± 1.8 mol/ mol, T3: 0.29 ± 0.12 mol/mol in very preterm neonates; and Tj: 3.5 ± 0.7 mol/mol, Tj: 0.34 ± 0.09 mol/mol in the older group. These results offer useful information for further analysis of the development of thyroid function in the human neonate.

Relative tumor-biopsy volume (RTV) is useful parameter in the preoperative assessment of tumor volume. Patients with higher RTV had significantly higher G and GS. However, these patients had significantly lower uPSA. This phenomenon could be the consequence of compromised PSA drainage from the peripheral zone of the prostate, caused by the tumor.

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