TSH – 004259

The consequences of subclinical thyroid disease (serum TSH 0.1−0.45 μIU/mL or 4.5−10.0 μIU/mL) are minimal and current guidelines recommend against routine treatment of patients with TSH levels in these ranges, but thyroid function tests should be repeated at 6- to 12-month intervals to monitor TSH levels;⁸ however, treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism is indicated in patients with TSH levels >10.0 μIU/mL or in patients with TSH levels <10.0 μIU/mL in conjunction with goiter or positive for antithyroid peroxidase antibodies (or both).⁹ In patients who are receiving replacement therapy, the dose should be adjusted so serum TSH values range from 0.3−3.0 μIU/mL. An exception is thyroid hormone replacement treatment after thyroidectomy for differentiated thyroid cancer, in which case, a mildly to moderately suppressed TSH level is generally desirable.¹⁰ It is reasonable to consider serum TSH measurement for pregnant women or women planning to become pregnant with a family history of thyroid disease, prior thyroid dysfunction, symptoms or physical findings suggestive of hypo- or hyperthyroidism, an abnormal thyroid gland on examination, type 1 diabetes mellitus, or a personal history of autoimmune disorder.¹¹ Suggested upper limit for the TSH reference range for pregnant women and preconception is: first trimester − <2.5 μIU/mL, and 3.0 μIU/mL in the second and third trimesters.¹⁰