A simplified strategy for testing thyroid function.
We assessed a new strategy for thyroid-function testing that involves simultaneous measurement of free thyroxin and thyrotropin, both in singletons, with chemiluminescent assays. Using our current strategy of measuring free thyroxin as a first-line test with selected back-up testing, the results show that, of 810 patients without previous thyroid disease, 445 received back-up tests. Of these, 345 were euthyroid, whereas 63 classified as euthyroid and not selected for further testing in fact had abnormal back-up test results. Evidently the simultaneous measurement of free thyroxin and thyrotropin with the "Magic Lite" technology greatly improves diagnostic efficiency compared with this current strategy.
Beaman
J M
JM
Department of Medical Biochemistry, University of Wales College of Medicine, Heath Park, Cardiff, U.K.
Woodhead
J S
JS
D006801:Humans; D007118:Immunoassay; D008163:Luminescent Measurements; D011786:Quality Control; D013959:Thyroid Diseases / Q000097:blood; D013960:Thyroid Function Tests; D013972:Thyrotropin / Q000097:blood*; D013974:Thyroxine / Q000097:blood*
D013972:Thyrotropin; D013974:Thyroxine