About Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is a pituitary hormone that regulates the production of hormones by the thyroid gland. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), which in turn regulate the body's metabolism, energy generation, and nervous system activity.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
0.3 - 1.8 mIU/L
Elite Value
Not specified
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive, potentially leading to fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
Low
Low levels may be associated with hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid is overactive, possibly resulting in weight loss, anxiety, and rapid heart rate.
Symptoms
High
May include fatigue, weight gain, dry skin, hair loss, sensitivity to cold, depression.
Low
Can include weight loss, nervousness, rapid heartbeat, increased appetite, sweating, difficulty sleeping.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
- | Biondi, B., & Cooper, D. S. (2019). The clinical significance of subclinical thyroid dysfunction. *Endocrine Reviews*, 40(1), 89-131.
- Gharib, H., Papini, E., Garber, J. R., et al. (2016). American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, American College of Endocrinology, and Associazione Medici Endocrinologi medical guidelines for clinical practice for the diagnosis and management of thyroid nodules – 2016 update. *Endocrine Practice*, 22(5), 622-639.
- Ross, D. S., Burch, H. B., Cooper, D. S., et al. (2016). 2016 American Thyroid Association guidelines for diagnosis and management of hyperthyroidism and other causes of thyrotoxicosis. *Thyroid*, 26(10), 1343-1421.
- Alexander, E. K., Pearce, E. N., Brent, G. A., et al. (2017). 2017 guidelines of the American Thyroid Association for the diagnosis and management of thyroid disease during pregnancy and the postpartum. *Thyroid*, 27(3), 315-389.
- Garber, J. R., Cobin, R. H., Gharib, H., et al. (2012). Clinical practice guidelines for hypothyroidism in adults: cosponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Thyroid Association. *Thyroid*, 22(12), 1200-1235. |