TSH - transcript. Blood test, TSH - interpretation

Blood analysis

testing the concentration
of the hormone TSH
is a mandatory part of a comprehensive examination, which is prescribed by a doctor if a patient is suspected of having thyroid disease.
A blood test for the hormone TSH is the most important study in endocrinology. Click to make an appointment, ultrasound or tests
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF BLOOD TEST FOR TSH HORMONE

If the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone is outside the normal range (decrease or increase), which will be shown in the results of the study, it will allow the specialist to confirm the presumptive diagnosis or make one.

General information about TSH

The content of the article

Thyroid-stimulating hormone is produced by a small gland located on the lower surface of the brain - the pituitary gland. It controls the formation of thyroid hormones (T3, T4) using feedback technology, ensuring a stable concentration of these substances in the blood. Thyroid hormones are considered the main controllers of energy expenditure that occurs in the human body. Maintaining their normal levels is very important for the healthy functioning of almost all systems and organs.

Why is a blood test for the hormone TSH performed?

A doctor may order a patient to take a thyroid-stimulating hormone blood test in the following situations.

• The need to check the condition of the thyroid gland, suspicion of the development of diseases associated with this organ in a person.
• The need for control over the treatment of thyroid diseases.
• To identify female infertility and select the optimal treatment method for this problem.

A blood test for the hormone TSH can be prescribed by a gynecologist or endocrinologist.

Indications for the study

Thyroid-stimulating hormone affects the functioning of the thyroid gland, so a blood test for TSH is prescribed to identify diseases of the organ. Together with this blood test, thyroid hormones are examined in the following pathological conditions:

• suspected thyroid disease;
• rapid weight gain or sudden loss;
• persistent soft tissue swelling not associated with pathologies of other organs;
• tendency to constipation (TSH regulates intestinal motility);
• baldness without obvious reasons;
• various menstrual cycle disorders not associated with diseases of the reproductive organs;
• the onset of early menopause during reproductive age or amenorrhea in the absence of genital diseases;
• constant upward fluctuations in pressure, increased heart rate without physical or psychological stress, heart rhythm disturbances;
• decreased sensitivity to cold;
• frequent decrease in body temperature below 36–35 degrees;
• lack of physical strength, constant desire to lie down;
• decreased mental activity, poor concentration, memory problems;
• psycho-emotional instability without reason;
• lacrimation, eye fatigue, swelling of the eyelids (in the absence of pathology of the binocular apparatus);
• problems falling asleep, poor sleep;
• sexual function disorders, decreased libido, in men – ejaculatory dysfunction, impotence;
• decreased fertility, infertility;
• protrusions in the thyroid gland area, difficulty swallowing in the absence of throat diseases;
• children's mental retardation;
• delayed sexual development;
• height inappropriate for age in adolescents;
• monitoring the progress of hormone therapy and treatment results.

A TSH blood test can be prescribed by a gynecologist to pregnant women for the timely detection of pathological conditions that threaten the health or life of the fetus or mother. Women aged 50 years and older and after menopause should have their TSH checked annually.

Indications for TSH analysis

As a rule, the doctor recommends that the patient take a blood test for the TSH hormone

with an increase in the size of the thyroid gland, in the presence of signs of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism.

Symptoms of hyperthyroidism may include:

• increased anxiety;
• cardiopalmus;
• reduction in body weight;
• hand trembling;
• insomnia;
• fatigue, chronic weakness;
• intolerance to bright light;
• diarrhea;
• dryness, swelling around the eyes, bulging, hyperemia;
• reduction in visual acuity.

Also, a TSH test must be performed if a patient has signs of hypothyroidism:

• constipation;
• dry skin;
• cold intolerance;
• hair loss;
• increased fatigue, constant weakness;
• disruptions of the menstrual cycle (in female patients).

Studying the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the patient’s body is a mandatory element of monitoring the effectiveness of the chosen treatment for thyroid diseases. TSH levels can also be checked in newborn infants if they belong to a risk group. A blood test for the TSH hormone is not performed for children at the Diana Clinic - it must be done in a children's clinic!

In what cases is an urgent test for thyroid-stimulating hormone required?

Of course, prescribing such an analysis is a matter for the doctor. And yet, let us outline the range of health problems for which a blood test for thyrotropin must be taken. These problems, at first glance, are not interconnected in any way (What, for example, could there be a connection between a constantly low temperature and baldness?), but in fact they have one reason - the “incorrect” level of thyrotropin. So, a TSH test is indicated for:

• Assessing the functioning of the thyroid gland in a child or adult;
• Assessing the condition of the newborn - recognizing possible disorders in the functioning of the thyroid gland;
• Enlargement of the thyroid gland and monitoring therapy for its pathologies;
• The presence of symptoms of hypothyroidism;
• The presence of symptoms of hyperthyroidism;
• Diagnosing infertility in men and women;
• Sexual impotence in men;
• Constantly low general body temperature (35°C and below);
• Delay in the development of children's thinking;
• Delayed sexual development of children;
• Myopathies (primary damage to muscle tissue);
• Arrhythmias;
• Depression;
• Hair loss.

Based on the list of indications, you can easily understand that a blood test for TSH can be prescribed by medical specialists of various profiles. But the leading role in all these situations should belong to the endocrinologist - a doctor who can identify the origins of all these problems, and not engage in symptomatic treatment.

What the results say

The norm values ​​depend on what indicators are used in a particular laboratory, therefore the interpretation

Only a doctor can
review test results The test may show an abnormal decrease or increase in the patient's TSH level.

Test results for the thyroid-stimulating hormone TSH may fall below normal in the following situations:

• cachexia;
• hyperthyroidism in pregnancy;
• mental illnesses, deviations;
• autoimmune thyroiditis with signs of thyrotoxicosis;
• Plummer's disease (thyrotoxic adenoma);
• TSH-independent thyrotoxicosis;
• diffuse toxic goiter.

Also, TSH levels may increase, exceeding the norm. Elevated

TSH test
results may indicate that the patient has the following problems:

• preeclampsia;
• mental illnesses, disorders;
• lead poisoning;
• adrenal insufficiency;
• lung tumors (thyrotropin-secreting);
• secondary or primary hypothyroidism;
• syndrome of unregulated secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone;
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis;
• pituitary tumor (basophilic adenoma, thyrotropinoma).

An increase and decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone levels indicates a malfunction of the patient’s thyroid gland. However, it is often not possible to accurately and correctly determine the cause of deviations using only a single analysis of the degree of concentration of TSH in the body. Therefore, along with this study, doctors often recommend that patients undergo tests for

triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine
(T4).

Reasons for increase or decrease

In addition to natural fluctuations caused by changes in the time of day, there may be other reasons that cause an increase or decrease in the hormone and a discrepancy between its accepted values. A deviation from the norm in the TSH analysis occurs for the following reasons:

• surgical intervention associated with the removal of the thyroid gland;
• therapy using radioactive iodine;
• development of autoimmune diseases;
• thyroid injuries;
• iodine deficiency;
• benign tumor;
• syndrome of resistance (insensitivity) to hormones produced by the pituitary gland;
• poisoning due to lead ingestion;
• increased physical activity.

Some medications also affect the hormone level, for example, anticonvulsants, radiocontrast agents, as well as prednisolone, morphine and beta blockers. Deviations are observed in patients undergoing hemodialysis and those diagnosed with mental disorders.

A decrease in the TSH norm also indicates the presence of serious disorders, which are an indication for testing. Most often, deviations are observed due to injuries of the pituitary gland and postpartum necrosis of this organ, the development of tumor formations and inflammation of parts of the brain. Acute pain in various conditions and taking medications (cytostatics, glucocorticoids, antihypertensive drugs) lead to a decrease in values.

An increase or decrease in hormone levels is indicated by characteristic symptoms. As the values ​​increase, excess body weight, muscle weakness, frequent feelings of chills, and memory impairment are often observed. The pulse rate slows down to 55 beats per minute or lower, and the condition of nails, hair and skin worsens. Both men and women lose sexual desire.

If the indicators fall below normal, dangerous malfunctions occur in the body, which are externally manifested by the following symptoms:

• frequent bowel movements;
• increased appetite against the background of regularly losing weight;
• brittle nails and brittle bones;
• mental disorders, emotional imbalance;
• wide opening of the eyelids, rare blinking.

If symptoms are present, we can talk about hyperthyroidism. With an excess of hormones produced by the thyroid gland, TSH synthesis practically stops. This is a signal to take tests.

How much does a TSH test cost?

Price

Testing
for thyroid-stimulating hormone
depends on the laboratory in which it is taken. At the Diana Clinic, a blood test for TSH without taking into account the cost of the discount is:

The cost of tests for other hormones can be found in the price list HERE. In the section “Blood Hormones”.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND ANALYSIS FOR TSH HORMONE ANALYSIS

The effect of the hormone on the body

TSH (abbreviation for thyroid-stimulating hormone) is a stimulant of the thyroid gland, the main organ of the endocrine system. It is produced by the pituitary gland and affects the production of triiodothyronine and thyroxine (T3 and T4). These are the most important hormones responsible for growth function and energy production, as well as regulating protein and fat metabolism. TSH ensures the normal flow of iodine to the thyroid gland and activates lipolysis (formation of fatty acids).

T3 and T4 also affect other organ systems:

• cardiovascular;
• digestive;
• sexual;
• nervous.

Maintaining their optimal balance is necessary for a person’s normal psycho-emotional state. These hormones are interrelated, so together with a blood test for TSH, doctors prescribe a study of T3 and T4. Special tests can determine whether there are disorders in the body. Their timely detection allows one to avoid many serious diseases, which often develop into a chronic form in the absence of proper treatment.

TSH production occurs only in the anterior lobe of the adenohypophysis. Large basophilic cells are responsible for this process, the number of which in the structure of the pituitary gland is 10%. Thyroid-stimulating hormone is a kind of connecting link between the hypothalamus and the thyroid gland, so its production can be carried out under the influence of these organs.

From a chemical point of view, the hormone belongs to glycoprotein substances, two-component proteins. Its unusual feature is its constant daily fluctuations. The secretion of TSH is dependent on human activity and changes in time of day. The maximum concentration is observed around 2-4 o'clock at night; by morning the levels gradually drop, but by 7-8 o'clock they remain high. For this reason, studies are prescribed only in the first half of the day, preferably after the patient wakes up. By 18-19 hours the concentration in the blood is minimal.

Fluctuations can also occur due to disturbances in circadian rhythm and sleep patterns. Constant insomnia, night walks, stress and fatigue at work certainly affect the synthesis of thyrotropin. In addition, it drops significantly with the onset of pregnancy. This is an indicator that the fetus is developing normally.

What can affect the analysis results

As part of proper preparation for the test

blood test for TSH, the patient is obliged to exclude factors that can distort the results and lead to their incorrect
interpretation.

• The level of concentration of the TSH substance in the body reflects the picture in the “thyroid gland – pituitary gland” system on average over the last 5-6 weeks. Therefore, control diagnostics of thyroid-stimulating hormone levels in the blood should be carried out 2 months after the dose of drugs that can change the level of hormones is adjusted. Of course, such adjustments are made together with the attending physician.
• of TSH
  in the body exceeding
  the norm
  in the
  analysis
  results: atenolol, motilium, phenytoin, valproic acid, amiodarone, propanolol, prednisolone, as well as methimazole, lovastatin, rifampicin, metoclopramide, iodides, and so on. The advisability of refusing them must be discussed with your doctor.
• The level of concentration of the hormone TSH in the body can change if the patient experiences emotional shock or severe stress. Also, indicators may be distorted due to serious physical activity.
• Infectious diseases that the patient has recently suffered can change the indicators of this substance. You must notify your doctor about this.
• The concentration of TSH in the body may vary throughout the day. Therefore, if thyroid-stimulating hormone concentrations are being monitored, it is important to test for TSH hormone
  at the same time of day.
• If the purpose of the analysis is to monitor the effectiveness of the therapy, taking medications prescribed by the doctor is suspended immediately on the day of the study.
• TSH levels can increase in women in the third trimester of pregnancy.

Table of TSH norms by stage of pregnancy

The placental hormone hCG, released into the blood of the expectant mother, affects all organs and glands of the body, including the thyroid. Due to the feedback between the hormones of this gland, the concentration of T3 and T4 increases sharply, causing a decrease in thyroid-stimulating hormone.

Changes in TSH concentration are associated with physiological changes in a woman’s body - changes in hormonal levels, qualitative composition of the body, the rate of anabolism and catabolism processes. Lifestyle changes also affect hormonal levels, in particular the TSH hormone.

In the first trimester, the fetus cannot produce thyroid hormones on its own. This is due to the insufficient development of this organ, the foundation of which is laid at 16-17 days of intrauterine development. The source of hormones becomes the mother's body, which is forced to secrete more TSH.

This is a natural process of providing the fetus with the necessary resources in the form of hormones. In the second trimester, the embryo's pancreas begins to function, providing its own secretion. During this period, a woman’s hormonal levels begin to change again - triiodothyronine and thyroxine decrease and the hormone TSH increases.

In the third trimester, thyroid hormone levels return to normal values.

Table of normal values:

Other important rules for preparing for a blood test for the TSH hormone

• It is highly advisable to donate blood for any hormonal analysis, including TSH, in the morning, always on an empty stomach. If it is not possible to submit biological material for research in the morning, this must be done at least 5 hours after eating.
• It is recommended to establish physical and psycho-emotional comfort a day before blood sampling. You can’t play sports (even light ones) or be nervous.
• Doctors do not recommend visiting a bathhouse or sauna or taking a hot bath in preparation for a thyroid-stimulating hormone test; overheating can distort the results of the study. Hypothermia is also prohibited, so activities such as going winter fishing or swimming in an ice hole are not allowed.
• 48 hours before the test, avoid drinking alcoholic beverages. Ideally, you should refrain from smoking for 24 hours before the test; if this is difficult, you should not smoke for 2-3 hours before taking blood.
• It is not recommended to donate blood for laboratory analysis immediately after an instrumental examination, physiotherapeutic procedures, ultrasound and x-ray examinations, massage and other medical procedures.

A blood test for the TSH hormone can only be taken in a good clinic!

How to prepare?

A little preparation is required before taking laboratory tests:

1. Blood should be donated in the morning (from 8 to 10) on an empty stomach. The last meal is no later than 12 hours before the procedure.
2. The day before, cancel physical activity, give up alcohol and smoking.
3. It is advisable to come to the laboratory in a calm psycho-emotional state, without hypothermia or overheating.
4. During the first examination, you need to stop all medications that affect the functioning of the thyroid gland two to four weeks before the procedure.
5. During a control analysis carried out to assess the effectiveness of treatment, stop taking medications on the day of the study.
6. Report the use of corticosteroids, aspirin, tranquilizers, and oral contraceptives.

Before the TSH test

It is advisable to come to the laboratory about an hour or at least half an hour before taking blood. The patient should sit, rest, and relax. Concurrent testing for T4 hormones may be required.

T3 together with
TSH
in order for the doctor to obtain a complete picture of the disease; the rules for preparing for these studies are almost the same.

Women can donate blood for TSH, regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle, unless otherwise indicated by the attending physician. About how soon a hormone test is done,

can be obtained from the specific laboratory.

TSH, what is it and what are the norms?

TSH is the abbreviation used for a blood test for thyroid hormones. Thyroid-stimulating hormone (thyrotropin) is synthesized in the pituitary gland. Why is a TSH test prescribed when thyroid disease is suspected? It's simple: thyroid-stimulating hormone regulates the level of T3 (interpretation: triiodothyronine) and T4 (full name: thyroxine), synthesized in the thyroid gland.

If these active substances are not produced enough, for example, with hypothyroidism, the pituitary gland increases the production of TSH. Thyrotropin “stimulates” the thyroid gland for active synthesis of hormones. If the level of T3 and T4 in the blood is too high (thyrotoxicosis, diffuse goiter), then the pituitary gland, inhibiting the synthesis of TSH, “removes” the thyroid-stimulating factor.

A clear relationship - thyrotropin is increased, T3-T4 is decreased and vice versa - is recorded only in the absence of pathology of the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. These two glands, located in the brain, act as the main “controllers” of the thyroid gland.

The level of thyrotropin is maximum in newborns (1.1-17.0) and gradually decreases until 14 years of age. From this age, in women, the normal TSH level varies between 0.4-4.0 mU/l. The value of thyrotropin, even in a healthy woman, changes during the day, so it is recommended to take a test for the hormone in the morning, on an empty stomach. The day before donating blood, it is recommended to give up fatty foods, alcohol, and even take vitamin complexes. If the patient receives hormone replacement therapy, the course is usually interrupted within 2 weeks. before taking the test as directed by your doctor.

Important! A woman can take a TSH test on any day of the menstrual cycle. The phase of the menstrual cycle does not affect the level of thyrotropin. Slightly elevated TSH of the thyroid gland, inconsistent over time, is not considered a pathology

This condition can occur after heavy physical activity or is triggered by taking anticonvulsant medications. However, a single case of deviation is not accompanied by organic disorders of the thyroid gland. A temporary increase in TSH is not accompanied by abnormalities recorded on ultrasound

Slightly elevated TSH of the thyroid gland, inconsistent over time, is not considered a pathology. This condition can occur after heavy physical activity or is triggered by taking anticonvulsant medications. However, a single case of deviation is not accompanied by organic disorders of the thyroid gland. A temporary increase in TSH is not accompanied by abnormalities recorded on ultrasound.

How to decipher a TSH analysis

Thyroid-stimulating hormone is known as the main regulator of the thyroid gland; if a patient is suspected of having a disease associated with it, a test for it is required. The interpretation of the analysis results should be done by a specialist, but knowledge of the basic values ​​of the norm will allow the patient to independently gain an understanding of his problem.

Formation of secondary reproductive organs

Unbound male sex hormones, androsterone and testosterone, lose their activity and cannot stimulate growth and form secondary sexual characteristics to the required extent. Delays in sexual development of a child and late manifestation of secondary sexual characteristics are a consequence of a lack of thyroid-stimulating hormone.

During puberty (adolescence), the body is especially sensitive to changes in the concentration of hormones, including TSH. Girls and boys with thyroid dysfunction, due to excess or deficiency of thyroid-stimulating hormone, have problems with puberty and require systematic monitoring by an endocrinologist.

How to interpret blood tests for the hormone TSH

Norm of the hormone TSH

test
results do not depend on the gender of the patient. However, the indicators vary depending on the norm, and the presence of pregnancy and trimester also have an impact. Normal results for each age group are indicated in µIU/ml.

• The normal level of thyroid-stimulating hormone for newborn babies is 0.7-15.2.
• Normal values ​​for children aged 6 days - 3 months are 0.72 - 11.0.
• For children aged 4-12 months, the normal concentration of TSH in the body can be 0.73-8.35.
• Normal values ​​of thyroid-stimulating hormone for children from one to six years old are in the range of 0.7-5.97.
• If a child is aged 7-11 years, normal levels of the TSH hormone for him are 0.6-4.84.
• For adolescents aged 12-18 years, the normal concentration of this substance in the body is 0.5-4.3.
• For people over 18 years of age, the normal levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone are in the range of 0.27-4.2.

Interpretation of tests and pregnancy

The level of concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the female body may change due to pregnancy, which must be taken into account when interpreting the results of a blood test for TSH.

• Normal TSH levels before the 12th week of pregnancy are 0.35 – 2.5 µIU/ml.
• The level of this substance in the blood of a pregnant woman at 12-24 weeks of pregnancy is in the range of 0.35 - 3 µIU/ml.
• At 24-42 weeks of pregnancy the indicators are similar – 0.35 – 3 µIU/ml. During this period, it is also possible that the results will be slightly higher than normal.

What does an elevated TSH mean?

If the indicators obtained as a result of a blood test for TSH

, exceed the norm, this may indicate that the patient has serious illnesses. The concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone may increase in the following cases:

• pituitary tumor (for example, basophilic adenoma, thyrotropinoma);
• primary, secondary hypothyroidism;
• syndrome of unregulated secretion of the hormone TSH;
• Hashimoto's thyroiditis;
• adrenal insufficiency;
• lead poisoning;
• preeclampsia;
• thyrotropin-secreting lung tumors
• mental disorders, diseases.

It must also be remembered that the TSH

in the body may increase in the
test
results if the patient takes the following drugs as part of treatment: rifampicin, diphenin, methimazole, iodides, furosemides, metoclopramide, aminoglutethimide, benserazide, phenothiazine derivatives, morphine, prednisolone, calcitonin, as well as amiodarone, propranolone, valproic acid , metoprolol, motilium, clomiphene, atenolol and phenytoin.

TSH hormone is elevated - what does this mean?

Only a doctor can decipher the results of the analysis, conduct further research and make an accurate diagnosis. However, let's try to figure out what deviations in the TSH indicator from the norm in the analysis can indicate.

Symptoms of elevated thyrotropin

An increased level of TSH in a person’s blood is manifested by the following external signs and symptoms:

1. irritability;
2. anxiety;
3. sleep problems;
4. decreased body temperature;
5. fatigue and weakness;
6. pale skin;
7. decreased visual acuity;
8. deterioration of thinking abilities, concentration;
9. an increase in the size of the thyroid gland;
10. tremor.

Causes and consequences of elevated TSH in women

So, if tests show that the TSH level is elevated, then this may indicate the following diseases:

• disruption of the central nervous system;
• adrenal dysfunction;
• tumor in the pituitary gland;
• autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's goiter);
• hypothyroidism of various etiologies (lack of thyroid hormones);
• syndrome of unregulated TSH secretion;
• thyroid hormone resistance syndrome;
• gestosis (severe toxicosis in late pregnancy).

Other pathologies may also be identified. It is also possible that the patient took medications that can affect TSH levels (in particular, levodopa, dopamine, steroid and thyroid hormones, aspirin), suffered severe stress or heavy physical activity.

The woman who underwent the TSH test may not have known about her pregnancy, and in expectant mothers, as is known, deviations in the level of this hormone are considered a common occurrence. In addition, after cholecystectomy (surgery to remove the gallbladder) and after hemodialysis, TSH levels increase. In any case, it is necessary to consult a qualified endocrinologist who will identify the true reasons for the increase in TSH levels.

What does a decrease in TSH norm mean?

If the interpretation of test results for the hormone TSH

shows results that are below normal, the patient may assume the following problems and diseases:

• hyperthyroidism in pregnancy;
• thyrotoxic adenoma (also called Plummer's disease);
• diffuse toxic goiter;
• autoimmune thyroiditis with signs of thyrotoxicosis;
• TSH-independent thyrotoxicosis;
• cachexia;
• mental illnesses, disorders.

Functions and norm by age

In addition to its most important task - regulating the functioning of the thyroid gland, TSH also affects the functioning of many organ systems. This substance is essential for the following processes to occur normally in the body:

• maintaining heat exchange;
• activation of metabolism;
• sufficient synthesis of nucleic acids;
• phospholipid production;
• formation of red blood cells and maintaining the quality of blood;
• glucose metabolism;
• the entry of iodine into the thyroid cells and their absorption.

Without sufficient production of thyrotropin, normal muscle activity is impossible, memory and brain function are impaired. Cells and tissues are not saturated with oxygen, and eggs do not mature.

When conducting a biochemical analysis of TSH hormones, indicators are examined depending on generally accepted values. Norms are taken into account in accordance with the age category of the patient. For adults from 14 to 50 years old, a result in the range of 0.4−4 μIU/ml is considered normal, for pregnant women - 0.2−3.5 μIU/ml. In newborns, in the first 10 days the indicators range from 1.1 to 17, and from 2 months to 2 years - 0.4-7 µIU/ml.

Test results may vary in some laboratories. Deviations of 0.2 are considered normal and acceptable, as they are sometimes associated with the reagents used when performing tests.

How to decipher the results of several tests for the hormone TSH

Deviations in the level of concentration of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the patient’s body from the norm in one direction or another directly indicate only malfunctions in the functioning of the thyroid gland. To determine the exact cause of such failures, the doctor, in most cases, together with a TSH test

prescribes tests for the patient for levels T3,
T4.

• Primary hypothyroidism is determined by normal or decreased T3 and T4, increased TSH.
• Secondary hypothyroidism is diagnosed when T3, T4, and TSH levels are reduced.
• Hyperthyroidism is determined by increased T3, T4, decreased TSH.

TPO-AT tests may also be required for accurate diagnosis of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

, AT-TG, exceeding the norm indicates subacute or autoimmune thyroiditis.

The role of TSH in the body of women and men

The pituitary gland is a gland called the medullary appendage, it has a round shape and is located near the brain (on the lower part).

The location of the pituitary gland closely connects it with the hypothalamus, an important part of the brain, which ensures the production of hormones that are essential for human life:

• oxytocin;
• vasopressin;
• somatotropic;
• luteotropic;
• thyroid-stimulating;
• melanocyte-stimulating.

They are released into the blood and affect the course of all vital processes of the body, from regulating sugar levels to normalizing heart rate. Hormones are synthesized in glands that do not have external ducts (pituitary gland, thyroid gland, thymus gland), which belong to the endocrine system of the body.

TSH, synthesized in the pituitary gland, affects the body by stimulating the production of thyroid hormones: T3 and T4.

T3 is the most active thyroid hormone, containing 3 iodine atoms and performing the following functions:

• Ensuring the growth and development of the body.
• Thermoregulation.
• Increased blood glucose levels.
• Catabolic and anabolic effects (depending on concentration).
• Stimulation of positive nitrogen balance.