title: Interpreting thyroid tests.
abstract: Thyroid diseases are commonly encountered in family practice and are often suspected on the basis of the history and physical examination. The prevalence of thyroid disease in the general population is 0.5 percent, but it can be much higher in selected groups of patients, such as the elderly. A basic understanding of thyroid physiology and the methodology of laboratory thyroid testing is essential for the evaluation and management of patients suspected of having thyroid disease. Recently developed tests, such as the ultra-sensitive thyroid-stimulating hormone test, provide the means for rapid and definitive diagnosis of common thyroid conditions.
mesh_terms: D006801:Humans; D013959:Thyroid Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D013960:Thyroid Function Tests; D013963:Thyroid Hormones / Q000097:blood; D013972:Thyrotropin / Q000097:blood
chemical_list: D013963:Thyroid Hormones; D013972:Thyrotropin