From the Guidelines
The medical term for high TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is hyperthyrotropinemia. This condition typically indicates an underactive thyroid gland, known as hypothyroidism, where the pituitary gland produces excess TSH to stimulate the thyroid to produce more thyroid hormones. Normal TSH levels generally range from 0.4 to 4.0 mIU/L, with values above this range considered elevated, as noted in the study by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
Key Points
- Hyperthyrotropinemia is often associated with hypothyroidism, a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones.
- The condition can be diagnosed through serum TSH tests, with multiple tests done over a 3- to 6-month interval to confirm or rule out abnormal findings, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
- Treatment usually involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy, most commonly with levothyroxine (brand names include Synthroid, Levoxyl), with the typical starting dose for adults being 1.6 mcg/kg body weight daily, taken on an empty stomach 30-60 minutes before breakfast, as stated in the study by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
- Dosage adjustments are made based on follow-up TSH tests, usually checked every 6-8 weeks until levels normalize, and once stabilized, annual TSH monitoring is recommended, as noted in the study by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
- It's essential to take levothyroxine consistently at the same time each day and avoid taking it with calcium supplements, iron, or certain foods that may interfere with absorption, as recommended by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
- Untreated high TSH can lead to worsening hypothyroidism symptoms, including fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and cognitive issues, so proper medical management is essential, as stated in the study by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
Importance of Proper Management
Proper medical management of hyperthyrotropinemia is crucial to prevent long-term morbidity and mortality from fractures, cancer, or cardiovascular disease, as noted in the study by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1. Early detection and treatment of asymptomatic persons with abnormal serum TSH levels with or without abnormal T4 levels may be beneficial, but widespread screening and treatment of subclinical thyroid dysfunction can also result in harms due to labeling, false-positive results, and overdiagnosis and overtreatment, as stated in the study by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
Conclusion Not Needed
The medical term for high TSH is hyperthyrotropinemia, and proper management is essential to prevent long-term morbidity and mortality. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommends screening and treatment for thyroid dysfunction, but also notes the potential harms of overdiagnosis and overtreatment, as stated in the study by the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force 1.
From the Research
Medical Term for High TSH
The medical term for high TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) is hypothyroidism.
- Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones, leading to an increase in TSH levels 2, 3.
- The normal range for TSH is typically between 0.3-2.0 mU/L, and levels above this range may indicate hypothyroidism 2.
- High TSH levels can be caused by a variety of factors, including autoimmune disorders, thyroid gland damage, and certain medications 4, 5.
- Symptoms of hypothyroidism may include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, and cold intolerance, among others 2, 3.
- Treatment for hypothyroidism typically involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which can help to normalize TSH levels and alleviate symptoms 2, 3, 4, 5.