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Thyroid function tests (TFTs) is a collective term for blood tests used to check the function of the thyroid. [1] TFTs may be requested if a patient is thought to suffer from hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), or to monitor the effectiveness of either thyroid-suppression or hormone replacement therapy.
The test is used in the differential diagnosis of secondary and tertiary hypothyroidism. First, blood is drawn and a baseline TSH level is measured. Then, TRH is administered via a vein. After 30 minutes blood is drawn again and the levels of TSH are measured and compared to the baseline. Some authors recommend additional blood sampling at 15 ...
Screening for thyroid disease in patients without symptoms is a debated topic although commonly practiced in the United States. [8] If dysfunction of the thyroid is suspected, laboratory tests can help support or rule out thyroid disease. Initial blood tests often include thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (T4). [9]
The diagnosis can be confirmed by a blood test, as the clinical impression alone may lead to overdiagnosis. [13] [85] Lymphocytic thyroiditis is associated with detectable antibodies against thyroglobulin, although they typically become undetectable in advanced disease. [85] Treatment is with thyroid hormone replacement. [13]
Regardless of the inconsistent findings, a 2007 study by Andersen et al. states that the distinction between sub-clinical and overt thyroid disease is in any case somewhat arbitrary. [55] Sub-clinical hyperthyroidism has been reported in 63% of euthyroid Graves' disease, [56] but only in 4% of cases where Graves' disease was in remission. [57]
Thyroid function tests include a battery of blood tests, including the measurement of the thyroid hormones, as well as the measurement of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). [84] They may reveal hyperthyroidism (high T 3 and T 4), hypothyroidism (low T 3, T 4), or subclinical hyperthyroidism (normal T 3 and T 4 with a low TSH). [84]