Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)
| Category | Biochemistry |
|---|---|
| Test background |
TSH stimulates T3 and T4 production by the thyroid gland and is regulated by negative feedback of these hormones at the pituitary and hypothalamus. Thyroid disease affects 3-5 % of the population and TSH is one of the frontline tests used for diagnosis. |
| Clinical Indications |
Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism |
| Reference range | 0.3-4.2 mIU/L |
| Sample & container required | SST (gold top) |
| Sample volume | 0.5 mL |
| Turnaround time | 1 day |