[Hyper- and hypothyroidism: which tests are reliable in general practice?].
Thyroid function is evaluated by measuring the serum concentrations of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (fT4). To confirm a normal thyroid function, a TSH within the normal range is usually sufficient. If hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism is suspected clinically, the assessment of TSH in association with fT4 is recommended. Additional tests in the evaluation of hyper- and hypothyroidism should be performed depending on the clinically suspected diagnosis. Acquired primary hypothyroidism in the adult can be diagnosed by measurement of TSH and fT4. Additional investigations are usually unnecessary. The indications to perform a thyroid radionuclide scan, thyroid ultrasonography and the determination of thyroid antibodies in patients with primary hyperthyroidism are discussed.
Wiesli
P
P
Departement Innere Medizin, Abteilung Endokrinologie und Diabetologie, Universitätsspital Zürich. peter.wiesli@dim.usz.ch
Schmid
C
C
D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D005194:Family Practice; D006801:Humans; D006980:Hyperthyroidism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D007037:Hypothyroidism / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D013960:Thyroid Function Tests