Thyroid Function Test Interpretation
Systematically interprets TSH + free T4 patterns to identify hypothyroid, hyperthyroid, subclinical, and central thyroid disease. Guides management decisions.
Score interpretation
→ Normal TFTs: no action; subclinical hypothyroid (TSH 4-10, normal T4): recheck in 3-6 months; treat if TSH >10 or symptomatic; screen for autoimmune cause (TPO antibodies)
→ Hypothyroid: levothyroxine 1.6mcg/kg/day (start 25-50mcg in elderly/cardiac); recheck TSH in 6-8 weeks; titrate to TSH 0.4-2.0; subclinical hyperthyroid: bone and cardiac risk assessment; refer if TSH <0.1 persistently
→ Overt hyperthyroid (low TSH + high T4): endocrinology; carbimazole 20-40mg daily; propranolol for symptoms; thyroid scan (isotope); definitive: radioiodine or thyroidectomy; central hypothyroid (low TSH + low T4): MRI pituitary; cortisol before levothyroxine (avoid adrenal crisis)
Interpretation bands for the TFT Interpretation. Apply clinical judgement and local guidance.
References
Related
Curated clinical cross-links plus same-class fallbacks.
- Levothyroxine · Thyroid Hormone
- Levothyroxine sodium · Thyroid hormone (T4)
- Levothyroxine (Elderly) · Thyroid Hormone
- Methotrexate (Dermatology — Psoriasis) · Disease-Modifying Antirheumatic / Immunosuppressant
- Liothyronine Sodium (T3) · Thyroid Hormone (T3)
- Potassium Iodide / Lugol's Solution · Thyroid Blocking Agent / Pre-operative Thyroid Preparation
- Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA) · JBDS 2013 / Joint British Diabetes Societies; NICE NG17
- Adult Hypoglycaemia (Treated Diabetes) · JBDS-IP (2023): Hospital Management of Hypoglycaemia
- Adrenal Crisis · Society for Endocrinology Emergency Guidance (2024)
- Type 2 Diabetes Management · NICE NG28 2022
- Hyperthyroidism Management · BTA / ETA 2018
- Adrenal Insufficiency · Society of Endocrinology / ESE 2016
Decision support only — verify against a current formulary, NICE, or your local guideline before clinical use.