What is the TSH blood test. How does it help diagnose thyroid disorders. What are the normal TSH levels. How do TSH levels affect overall health. What factors can influence TSH test results. When should you get a TSH test. How is the TSH test performed.

The Importance of TSH in Thyroid Function

The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test is a crucial tool in assessing thyroid function. TSH, produced by the pituitary gland, regulates the production of thyroid hormones. These hormones play a vital role in metabolism, growth, and development.

Why is the TSH test so important? It serves as the primary screening tool for thyroid disorders. A high TSH level typically indicates an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while a low TSH level often suggests an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

How does TSH work?

TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce two hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These hormones influence nearly every organ system in the body, affecting:

• Metabolism and weight
• Heart rate and blood pressure
• Body temperature
• Energy levels
• Muscle strength
• Mood and cognitive function

When thyroid hormone levels drop, the pituitary gland responds by increasing TSH production. Conversely, when thyroid hormone levels are high, TSH production decreases. This feedback loop helps maintain thyroid hormone balance in the body.

Normal TSH Levels and Their Significance

Interpreting TSH levels is essential for diagnosing thyroid disorders. What are considered normal TSH levels? Generally, the normal range falls between 0.4 and 4.0 mIU/L (milliunits per liter). However, there’s ongoing debate among endocrinologists about the optimal upper limit of this range.

Some experts argue for a narrower reference range, suggesting that the upper limit should be closer to 2.5 or 3.0 mIU/L. This debate stems from studies showing that individuals with TSH levels in the upper part of the traditional normal range may already be experiencing subtle thyroid dysfunction.

Factors influencing TSH levels

Several factors can affect TSH levels, including:

1. Age: TSH levels tend to increase with age
2. Pregnancy: TSH levels typically decrease during pregnancy
3. Time of day: TSH levels are generally higher in the early morning
4. Certain medications
5. Stress and illness
6. Iodine intake

Healthcare providers must consider these factors when interpreting TSH test results to ensure accurate diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders.

TSH Testing: When and How?

When should you get a TSH test? Healthcare providers may recommend TSH testing if you’re experiencing symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, such as unexplained weight changes, fatigue, or mood swings. Additionally, routine TSH screening is often recommended for:

• Adults over 35, every 5 years
• Pregnant women or those planning pregnancy
• Individuals with a family history of thyroid disorders
• People with autoimmune diseases

How is the TSH test performed? It’s a simple blood test that requires no special preparation. A healthcare professional will draw a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

TSH and Hypothyroidism: Unraveling the Connection

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid, is often associated with elevated TSH levels. As the thyroid gland fails to produce sufficient hormones, the pituitary gland responds by increasing TSH production in an attempt to stimulate the thyroid.

What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism? Common signs include:

• Fatigue and weakness
• Weight gain
• Cold sensitivity
• Dry skin and hair
• Depression
• Constipation
• Irregular menstrual periods

Is hypothyroidism common? According to the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), about 4.6% of the U.S. population has hypothyroidism. The prevalence increases with age, affecting up to 10% of women over 60.

Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Gray Area

Subclinical hypothyroidism is a condition where TSH levels are mildly elevated, but T4 levels remain within the normal range. This condition affects 4-10% of the adult population and poses a diagnostic challenge for healthcare providers.

Should subclinical hypothyroidism be treated? The decision to treat depends on various factors, including the degree of TSH elevation, presence of symptoms, and individual risk factors. Some studies suggest that treating subclinical hypothyroidism may prevent progression to overt hypothyroidism and reduce cardiovascular risk.

TSH and Hyperthyroidism: The Other Side of the Coin

Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, is characterized by low TSH levels. In this condition, the thyroid gland produces excess hormones, leading to a suppression of TSH production by the pituitary gland.

What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism? Common signs include:

• Unexplained weight loss
• Rapid heartbeat
• Increased appetite
• Nervousness and anxiety
• Heat sensitivity
• Tremors
• Irregular menstrual periods

How common is hyperthyroidism? It affects approximately 1.2% of the U.S. population, with women being 5-10 times more likely to develop the condition than men.

Subclinical Hyperthyroidism: A Subtle Imbalance

Subclinical hyperthyroidism is characterized by low TSH levels with normal T4 and T3 levels. This condition affects about 2% of the population and may progress to overt hyperthyroidism in some cases.

What are the risks of untreated subclinical hyperthyroidism? Potential complications include:

• Increased risk of atrial fibrillation
• Osteoporosis and fractures
• Cardiovascular morbidity and mortality

TSH Testing in Pregnancy: A Critical Consideration

Thyroid function plays a crucial role in fetal development, making TSH testing particularly important during pregnancy. Maternal thyroid hormones are essential for the fetus’s brain development, especially during the first trimester.

How do TSH levels change during pregnancy? TSH levels typically decrease during the first trimester due to the effects of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). As a result, pregnancy-specific reference ranges for TSH are necessary for accurate interpretation.

Implications of Thyroid Dysfunction in Pregnancy

Untreated thyroid disorders during pregnancy can lead to various complications, including:

• Miscarriage
• Preterm birth
• Low birth weight
• Preeclampsia
• Impaired fetal cognitive development

When should pregnant women be tested for thyroid function? The American Thyroid Association recommends TSH testing for all pregnant women during the first trimester, with follow-up testing as needed throughout the pregnancy.

TSH and Other Health Conditions: Beyond Thyroid Disorders

While TSH primarily reflects thyroid function, its levels can be influenced by or associated with various other health conditions. Understanding these relationships can provide valuable insights into overall health and guide treatment decisions.

TSH and Obesity

Is there a link between TSH levels and obesity? Several studies have observed a positive correlation between TSH levels and body mass index (BMI). This relationship may be bidirectional, with obesity potentially affecting thyroid function and thyroid dysfunction influencing weight.

What are the implications of this relationship? Weight loss interventions may help improve thyroid function in individuals with elevated TSH levels, while proper management of thyroid disorders can aid in weight control.

TSH and Depression

Can thyroid dysfunction contribute to depression? Yes, both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism have been associated with mood disorders, including depression. Even subtle changes in thyroid function, as indicated by TSH levels within the upper normal range, may influence mood and cognitive function.

Should individuals with depression undergo thyroid function testing? Many experts recommend routine thyroid function testing in patients with depression, as treating underlying thyroid dysfunction can significantly improve mood and overall mental health.

TSH and Cardiovascular Health

How do TSH levels relate to cardiovascular risk? Both high and low TSH levels have been associated with increased cardiovascular risk. Hypothyroidism can lead to elevated cholesterol levels and hypertension, while hyperthyroidism can cause arrhythmias and increase the risk of heart failure.

What is the optimal TSH range for cardiovascular health? Some studies suggest that maintaining TSH levels in the lower half of the normal range may be beneficial for cardiovascular health, particularly in older adults.

Advances in TSH Testing: Beyond the Basic Blood Test

While the standard TSH blood test remains the primary screening tool for thyroid disorders, advances in medical technology are expanding our understanding of thyroid function and improving diagnostic accuracy.

TSH Bioactivity Testing

What is TSH bioactivity testing? This advanced test measures not only the quantity of TSH but also its biological activity. Some individuals may have normal TSH levels but decreased TSH bioactivity, leading to subtle thyroid dysfunction that might be missed by standard tests.

How can TSH bioactivity testing improve diagnosis? By providing a more comprehensive assessment of thyroid function, this test may help identify and treat individuals with atypical thyroid disorders who might otherwise go undiagnosed.

Genetic Testing and Personalized Medicine

Can genetic factors influence TSH levels and thyroid function? Yes, genetic variations can affect an individual’s susceptibility to thyroid disorders and their response to treatment. Genetic testing may help identify these variations and guide personalized treatment approaches.

What are the potential benefits of genetic testing in thyroid disorders? By understanding an individual’s genetic profile, healthcare providers can:

• Predict the risk of developing thyroid disorders
• Optimize medication dosing
• Identify potential adverse reactions to treatment
• Tailor monitoring and follow-up strategies

TSH Testing: Challenges and Controversies

Despite its widespread use and importance in thyroid diagnosis, TSH testing is not without challenges and controversies. Understanding these issues is crucial for healthcare providers and patients alike.

Reference Range Debate

Why is there ongoing debate about TSH reference ranges? The current reference range (0.4-4.0 mIU/L) was established based on population studies. However, some experts argue that this range is too broad and may miss subtle thyroid dysfunction.

What are the implications of narrowing the reference range? Lowering the upper limit of the normal range (e.g., to 2.5 or 3.0 mIU/L) would result in more individuals being diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism. This could lead to increased treatment rates but also raises concerns about potential overdiagnosis and overtreatment.

TSH Variability

How variable are TSH levels in individuals? Studies have shown that TSH levels can vary significantly within the same individual over time, even in the absence of thyroid disease. This variability can be due to factors such as:

• Circadian rhythm
• Seasonal changes
• Stress
• Illness
• Medication effects

What are the implications of TSH variability for diagnosis and treatment? Healthcare providers must consider this variability when interpreting TSH results. In some cases, repeated testing or the use of additional thyroid function tests may be necessary to confirm a diagnosis or guide treatment decisions.

TSH Testing in the Elderly

Are there special considerations for TSH testing in older adults? Yes, TSH levels tend to increase with age, and the clinical significance of mildly elevated TSH in the elderly is debated. Some studies suggest that slightly higher TSH levels may be protective in older adults, particularly in terms of longevity and cognitive function.

How should TSH results be interpreted in the elderly? Healthcare providers must consider factors such as overall health status, presence of symptoms, and potential risks and benefits of treatment when interpreting TSH results in older patients. Age-specific reference ranges may be more appropriate for this population.

The Future of Thyroid Function Testing: Beyond TSH

While TSH remains the primary screening tool for thyroid disorders, researchers are exploring new approaches to enhance our understanding of thyroid function and improve diagnostic accuracy.

Novel Biomarkers

What new biomarkers are being investigated for thyroid function assessment? Researchers are exploring various molecules that may provide additional insights into thyroid health, including:

• Thyroid hormone metabolites
• MicroRNAs
• Thyroid autoantibodies
• Markers of oxidative stress

How might these novel biomarkers improve thyroid diagnosis and treatment? By providing a more comprehensive picture of thyroid function and underlying pathophysiology, these markers could help:

1. Identify subtle thyroid dysfunction
2. Predict disease progression
3. Guide personalized treatment strategies
4. Monitor treatment response more accurately

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

Can artificial intelligence (AI) improve thyroid function assessment? AI and machine learning algorithms are being developed to analyze complex patterns in thyroid function tests and other clinical data. These tools have the potential to:

• Enhance diagnostic accuracy
• Predict disease outcomes
• Optimize treatment selection
• Identify novel subtypes of thyroid disorders

What are the challenges in implementing AI-based approaches? While promising, the integration of AI into clinical practice faces several hurdles, including:

1. Need for large, diverse datasets for training algorithms
2. Ensuring transparency and interpretability of AI-based decisions
3. Addressing potential biases in AI systems
4. Regulatory and ethical considerations

As research in these areas progresses, the future of thyroid function testing may involve a more holistic approach, combining traditional TSH testing with novel biomarkers and AI-driven analytics to provide a more comprehensive and personalized assessment of thyroid health.

Biochemical Testing of the Thyroid: TSH is the Best and, Oftentimes, Only Test Needed – A Review for Primary Care

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Procedure, Side Effects, and Results

If a doctor is concerned about your thyroid function, they may recommend a series of blood tests. These tests are used to identify levels of hormones produced in the thyroid. You may also be able to use at-home blood tests.

Thyroid function tests are a series of blood tests used to measure how well your thyroid gland is working. Available tests include the T3, T3RU, T4, and TSH.

The thyroid is a small gland located in the lower-front part of your neck. It’s responsible for helping regulate many bodily processes, such as metabolism, energy generation, and mood.

The thyroid produces two major hormones: triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). If your thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough of these hormones, you may experience symptoms such as weight gain, lack of energy, and depression. This condition is called hypothyroidism.

If your thyroid gland produces too many hormones, you may experience weight loss, high levels of anxiety, tremors, and a sense of being on a “high.” This is called hyperthyroidism.

Typically, a doctor who is concerned about your thyroid hormone levels will order broad screening tests, such as the T4 or the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) test. If those results come back abnormal, your doctor will order further tests to pinpoint the reason for the problem.

If you’re concerned about your thyroid function and don’t already have a primary care doctor, you can view doctors in your area through the Healthline FindCare tool.

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You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for the thyroid function tests.

If a healthcare professional has ordered other blood tests to be taken at the same time, you may need to fast for several hours before the test. They will let you know of any special instructions to follow.

Otherwise, you will not need to follow any specific directions before the test.

Before you get a blood draw to check your thyroid levels, talk with your doctor about any medications you’re taking. Also let them know if you’re pregnant. Certain medications and being pregnant may influence your test results.

A blood draw, also known as venipuncture, is a procedure performed at a lab or a doctor’s office. When you arrive for the test, you’ll be asked to sit in a comfortable chair or lie down on a cot or gurney. If you’re wearing long sleeves, you’ll be asked to roll up one sleeve or to remove your arm from the sleeve.

A healthcare professional, like a technician or nurse, will tie a band of rubber tightly around your upper arm to make the veins swell with blood. Once the healthcare professional has found an appropriate vein, they’ll insert a needle under the skin and into the vein.

You may feel a sharp prick when the needle punctures your skin. The healthcare professional will collect your blood in test tubes and send it to a laboratory for analysis.

When the healthcare professional has gathered the amount of blood needed for the tests, they’ll withdraw the needle and place pressure on the puncture wound until the bleeding stops. They will then place a small bandage over the wound.

You should be able to return to your typical daily activities immediately.

A blood draw is a routine, minimally invasive procedure and doesn’t have many side effects.

During the days immediately after the blood draw, you may notice slight bruising or soreness at the area where the needle was inserted. Placing an ice pack on the affected site or taking an over-the-counter pain reliever can help ease your discomfort.

If you experience a great deal of pain, or if the area around the puncture becomes red and swollen, follow up with your doctor immediately. These could be signs of an infection.

T4 and TSH results

The TSH test and the T4 test are the two most common thyroid function tests. The TSH test is often done first because it’s the best way to initially test thyroid function. It determines whether a person has hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.

The T4 test is known as the thyroxine test. A high level of T4 indicates an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Symptoms include:

• anxiety
• unplanned weight loss
• tremors
• diarrhea

Most of the T4 in your body is bound to protein. A small portion of T4 is not, and this is called free T4.

Free T4 is the form that is readily available for your body to use. Sometimes a free T4 level is also checked along with the T4 test.

The TSH test measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in your blood. The TSH has a normal test range between 0.4 and 4.0 milli-international units of hormone per liter of blood (mIU/L).

If you show signs of hypothyroidism and have a TSH reading above 4.5 mIU/L, you’re at risk of progressing to hypothyroidism. Symptoms can include:

• weight gain
• fatigue
• depression
• brittle hair and fingernails

Your doctor may decide to begin treating your symptoms with medications, such as levothyroxine.

Both the T4 and TSH tests are routinely performed on newborn babies to identify a low functioning thyroid gland. If left untreated, this condition, called congenital hypothyroidism, can lead to developmental disabilities.

T3 results

The T3 test checks for levels of the hormone triiodothyronine. It’s usually ordered if T4 tests show elevation.

Abnormally high levels of T3 most commonly indicate a condition called Grave’s disease. It’s an autoimmune disorder associated with hyperthyroidism.

If your blood work suggests your thyroid gland is overactive, your doctor may order a thyroid uptake test or an ultrasound.

If scan results are normal, your doctor will likely prescribe medication to regulate your thyroid activity. They will follow up with additional thyroid function tests to make sure the medication is working. These tests will check for:

• structural problems with the thyroid gland
• thyroid gland activity
• any tumors that may be causing problems

Your doctor may also order an ultrasound if they discover abnormal findings during a physical exam of your neck. If ultrasound results are abnormal, your doctor may order a tissue sample of the thyroid.

Thyroid cancer is not related to hyperthyroid or hypothyroid. Keep in mind that blood tests are not used to find thyroid cancer.

TSH up to 50% off

Assay Description

Index

TSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It regulates the synthesis of the hormones T3 and T4 and the main clinical significance of the TSH analysis is the assessment of thyroid function.

Applications

Usually needed to rule out hyperthyroidism (low or undetectable TSH) or hypothyroidism (high TSH). For decoding, it is important to see the ratio of TSH, T3 and T4. That is why it is advisable to take an analysis “Thyroid hormones (advanced examination)”. This complex includes TSH, T3 and T4.

Specialist

It is prescribed both in the complex of analyzes of thyroid hormones, and separately, by a therapist or endocrinologist

Important

The norm of TSH differs depending on the gender and age of the person. In addition, the norm is affected by low-calorie nutrition and gestational age.

Research method – Chemiluminescent immunoassay (ICLA)

Research material
– Serum

Due date

Analysis will be ready in
within 1 day, excluding the day of collection.
The term can be extended by 1 day if necessary.
You will receive results by email. email as soon as it’s ready.

Deadline: within 1 day, excluding the day of sampling, excluding Saturday and Sunday (except for the day of taking the biomaterial)

How to prepare

In advance

It is recommended to take blood for hormones in the morning, unless otherwise specified by the attending physician. To check the dynamics of the indicator each time, select the same intervals for the delivery of the analysis.

Do not take a blood test immediately after X-ray, fluorography, ultrasound, physiotherapy.

Taking drugs containing thyroid hormones affects the results of tests for these hormones. Discuss with your doctor whether you need to take tests while taking medications or stop them 7 days before the test. Thyroid hormones are recommended to be taken 3 days after taking medications containing iodine.

The day before

24 hours before blood sampling:

• Limit fatty and fried foods, do not take alcohol.

• Avoid sports and emotional stress.

From 8 to 14 hours before donating blood, do not eat, drink only clean still water.

On the day of donation

Before blood sampling

• Do not smoke for 60 minutes,
• 15-30 minutes to be in a calm state.

Result

Analysis result example. pdf

Explanation of

Interpretation of test results is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a diagnosis or
replaces medical advice. Reference values ​​may differ from those indicated in
depending on the equipment used, the actual values ​​will be indicated on the form
results.

The TSH blood test is, in the vast majority of cases, sufficient to assess thyroid function. Determining the concentration of T4 (less often T3) exceeds the diagnostic value of determining the concentration of TSH only in the situation when it is necessary to assess the rapidly changing content of thyroid hormones in the body (monitoring thyrostatic therapy for toxic goiter, monitoring thyroid function in pregnant women).

When testing for TSH hormones, the lower concentration range is of most interest to the clinician. Evaluation of TSH concentration in low ranges of values ​​is necessary:

• For the diagnosis of thyrotoxicosis, especially subclinical.
• For adequate monitoring of suppressive therapy with thyroid hormone preparations of various forms of goiter.
• For the differential diagnosis of true thyrotoxicosis and TSH suppression occurring during pregnancy.

The most common reasons for the discrepancy between the results of determining TSH and free T4 with the clinical picture in case of a diffuse increase in the size of the thyroid gland:

• Over-treatment with thyroid hormones (low TSH, normal free T4).
• Recently adjusted thyroid hormone therapy (TSH elevated, free T4 normal).
• Taking drugs containing T3 (TSH is low, free T4 is normal).
• Insufficient thyroid hormone therapy (TSH elevated, free T4 normal)
• Extrathyroid pathology.
• Taking drugs that affect thyroid status (glucocorticoids, dopamine, etc. )
• Total resistance to thyroid hormones (TSH elevated, free T4 elevated, clinical euthyroidism).
• TSH-secreting tumors (TSH elevated, free T4 elevated, clinical thyrotoxicosis).

Unit: mIU/L

Reference values:

Increase:

• Primary hypothyroidism.
• Subacute thyroiditis.
• Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
• Pituitary tumor.
• Ectopic secretion in tumors of the mammary gland, lung.
• Endemic goiter.
• Thyroid cancer.

Decrease:

• Primary hyperfunction of the thyroid gland.
• Hypothalamo-pituitary insufficiency.
• Itsenko-Cushing syndrome.
• Pituitary tumor.
• Pituitary injury.

Quality Assurance

Examination performed by Beckman Coulter UniCel DxI 800 Immunochemical Analyzer, USA

Time-tested, reliable technology that guarantees high quality and reliability of performed studies

TSH

Learn more about thyroid hormones:

The thyroid gland and its dysfunction

Fitness and the influence of hormones

Medical tests for overweight and obesity

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. In the body, TSH controls the processes of metabolism, growth and development of the body. In particular, TSH regulates the synthesis of thyroid hormones: T4 – thyroxine and T3 – triiodothyronine, where the concentration of TSH directly depends on the amount of these substances in the blood. The main clinical value of TSH analysis is the assessment of thyroid function. But, since it interacts very actively with hormones, it is important to see the ratio of TSH, T3 and T4 for decoding. The norm of TSH differs depending on the gender and age of the person. In addition, the norm is affected by low-calorie nutrition and gestational age.

TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone, Thyrotropin, Thyroid-stimulating Hormone, TSH, Thyrotropin) is one of several pituitary glycoprotein hormones (LH, FSH, TSH) that consist of two non-covalently linked peptide chains: an α-chain, similar in structure to all these hormones, as well as the β-chain responsible for biological and immunological specificity. TSH, which is produced by the anterior pituitary gland, is the main regulator of thyroid function. The thyrotropin-releasing factor (TRF) of the hypothalamus controls the secretion of TSH, which in turn regulates the secretion of the thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). There is a negative feedback mechanism controlled by the hypothalamus, which is sensitive to the concentrations of T3 and T4 thyroid hormones circulating in the bloodstream. This whole complex belongs to the so-called hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid system. Possible changes in the function of this system can affect the concentration of T3 and T4 in the blood.

TSH influences the main metabolic processes in the thyroid gland by binding to the cell membrane receptor and activating adenylate cyclase. In turn, adenylate cyclase triggers the production of cyclic AMP, the “second messenger” of TSH, which provides a cascade of metabolic reactions in the cell. Through this activation, the synthesis and secretion of T3 and T4 is enhanced, and the physical and functional integrity of the thyroid gland is maintained.

The main clinical value of determining the concentration of TSH in the blood (TSH analysis) is to assess the function of the thyroid gland. An analysis for the hormone TSH allows you to determine the concentration of TSH in the blood. TSH analysis is recommended in the following cases

• to rule out hyperthyroidism (low or undetectable TSH) or hypothyroidism (high TSH)
• for monitoring antithyroid therapy in hyperthyroidism or T4 replacement therapy in primary hypothyroidism
• to control T4 suppression – the trophic effect of TSH in “cold nodes” and non-toxic goiter
• to assess response to a stimulus test – thyrotropin-releasing factor (TRF)

Because accurate and sensitive thyroid-stimulating hormone tests are now available, TSH testing is used to diagnose latent or subclinical forms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) analysis can be taken at any Lab4U medical center.

Blood test for TSH in Zaporozhye | Analyzes

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Get tested for TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) at St. Nicholas Clinic

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) test is an important diagnostic indicator for the qualitative assessment of pituitary and thyroid function. The procedure is routine and not particularly difficult – a quick blood sampling from a vein, the work of the laboratory and the results of the analysis are already in your hands. Clinic of St. Nicholas – everything for your comfort and safety!

Study preparation

It is extremely important to carefully consider the preparation for obtaining the most accurate results of the TSH analysis:

TSH: normal in the blood

In a healthy body, TSH performs a number of important functions:

• Promotes the absorption of iodine by cells
• Controls the production of thyroid hormones
• Regulates metabolic processes, functioning of all body systems

TSH norm is a variable value and it changes along with circadian rhythms. The maximum concentration of the hormone in the blood is observed at 2-4 am, and at least at 5-7 pm.

On average, its norm is 0.4-4.0 mU/l.

Gender also influences the standardized indicators (for example, in women, the allowable fluctuations of the hormone are higher – it depends on the phase of the menstrual cycle, taking contraceptives, pregnancy, breastfeeding).

Possible causes of abnormality

Elevated TSH may indicate:

• Adrenal insufficiency
• Pituitary gland disease (adenoma)
• Hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormone production)
• Hormone-secreting tumors (eg, neoplasms of the breast , lung)
• Syndrome of unregulated secretion of TSH
• Syndrome of resistance (immunity) of the body to thyroid hormones
• Thyroiditis (inflammation of the thyroid gland)
• Pre-eclampsia or eclampsia in pregnant women
• Psychosomatic pathology tsom), when taking some drugs (especially hormones).

  Decreased concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the blood may indicate:

  • Stress, mental disorders
  • Pituitary injury
  • Pituitary necrosis
  • Starvation, strict diets
  • Taking certain drugs (anabolic hormones, corticosteroids, cytostatics)
  • Thyroid hormone poisoning (with toxic goiter, autoimmune thyroiditis, oral administration)

  The analysis for the TSH hormone is performed by an experienced nurse, observing all the rules for the collection, storage and transportation of biomaterial. The results of the study are evaluated by a diagnostician, after which he formulates a competent conclusion. Remember that only a specially trained qualified person can interpret the data. Self-diagnosis and self-treatment can cause irreparable harm to your health!

  Analysis for TSH in the Clinic of St. Nicholas is performed on the basis of a modern laboratory, the cost of the study is 145 hryvnia.

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