Test: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Serum Test

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Background/Purpose

To help diagnose thyroid disorders and to monitor treatment of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism; sometimes a TSH test is used to screen newborns for congenital hypothyroidism; there is no consensus within the medical community as to whether screening of adults should be done.
When there are signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism and/or an enlarged thyroid (goiter) or when they have a thyroid nodule (a small lump on the thyroid gland that may be solid or a fluid-filled cyst); when they are being treated for a thyroid disorder.
It is often done in conjunction with other tests such as a chemistry panel or thyroid panel.

Procedure

Specimen
Serum

Volume
2 mL

Minimum Volume
0.7 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)

Container
Red-top tube or gel-barrier tube

Collection
If a red-top tube is used, transfer separated serum to a plastic transport tube.

Storage Instructions
Room temperature
Performed: Unilaterally

Dialog

Blood draw for Thyroid stimulating hormone.

Criteria

• > 0.4 mIU/L
• < 4.5 mIU/L

Measurement

0.4 - 4.5 mIU/L

LOINC Code

0

Scale/Grading

Pass/Fail