title: Abnormal TSH: a rational approach to the older patient.
abstract: The clinician whose older patient exhibits an abnormal TSH value must first determine if the result is caused by nonthyroidal illness or a medication whose effect is reversible. Patients without a nonthyroidal cause for the TSH abnormality and corresponding abnormalities in levels of circulating thyroid hormones and/or significant reproducible TSH elevation are usually in need of therapy. Those with normal circulating concentrations of thyroid hormone and potentially reversible signs and symptoms may be considered for a monitored therapeutic trial of treatment. All others need to be followed biochemically regardless of treatment choices. Patients with subclinical thyroid dysfunction require follow-up.
authors.affiliation: University of Wisconsin, Madison, USA.
authors.forename: P J
authors.initials: PJ
authors.lastname: Drinka
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D064420:Drug-Related Side Effects and Adverse Reactions; D006801:Humans; D013959:Thyroid Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000188:drug therapy; D013960:Thyroid Function Tests; D013972:Thyrotropin / Q000097:blood*; D013974:Thyroxine / Q000008:administration & dosage; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D013972:Thyrotropin; D013974:Thyroxine