Diagnosis of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism

Suspect cases of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism require initially an in-depth analysis of the patient’s medical history and a careful physical examination.

However, the crucial step towards the diagnosis of any thyroid condition is a blood test to measure the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) which is low in hyperthyroidism and high in hypothyroidism.

It is also necessary to measure the level of two of the thyroid hormones (both T4 and T3) which are high in hyperthyroidism and low in hypothyroidism. T3 is also called triiodothyronine while T4 is known as thyroxine.

Other tests include: The measurement of specific antibodies which detect the origin of a specific thyroid problemAn Thyroid scintigraphy or thyroid scan, which produces images of the thyroid gland and can help to determine its size, shape and position. It is used to detect the possible causes of hyperthyroidism and to distinguish it from thyroiditis. An iodine scan is used to measure thyroid function by determining how much iodine is taken up by the thyroid gland.