Question

Differentiate between cretinism and Myxoedema.

Answer 1

Hint: The diseases which are caused due to change or mutation in the genes of an individual is known as genetic disorder.

Complete Answer:
Let us know a little more about genetic disorders. Genetic disorders are generally present from birth and there is no proper treatment till for correction of these genetic disorders once the baby is borned. There are three types of genetic disorders,
1) Single gene disorders
2) Complex disorders
3) Chromosomal disorders

Both cretinism and myxedema are examples of genetic disorders.

Sl.no	Cretinism	Myxedema
1.	It is generally found in small children	It is generally found in adults
2.	Symptoms- - Short stature - Mental and sexual retardation - Depression - Dry skin - Lethargy - Weight gain	Symptoms- - Weakness- Confusion- Swelling of body - Slow reflexes and thoughts - Bone maturity delay - Protruding stomach - Hair loss
3.	It occurs due to deficiency of iodine in the body	It occurs due to under activity of the thyroid gland
4.	A diet rich in iodine can help	It can be treated by treating the cause, i.e. hypothyroidism

Additional information:
Genetic disorders are caused due to various reasons,
- They can be caused by single gene mutation or by multiple gene mutation s
- They can also be caused due to change in chromosome numbers
- If the mother is actively smoking/ drinking during the course of pregnancy
Examples of genetic disorders are Thalassemia, Downs syndrome, Sickle cell anaemia and Cystic fibrosis.

Note: Similarities between cretinism and myxedema are caused due to hypothyroidism.