THYROID Flashcards
Where is the thyroid located?
In the lower neck
What is TRH?
Regulates thyroid activity
What is TSH?
Stimulates hormones into the thyroid gland and regulates iodide
Where is T3 and T4 produced?
Follicular epithelial cells
What is hyperthyroidism?
Excess release of T3 and T4
What are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism?
Weight loss, heart palpitations, diarrhoea, insomnia, heat intolerance
What is Graves’ disease?
A type of hyperthyroidism - autoimmune disease - immune system creates an antibody - thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin attaching to thyroid cells, producing too much hormone
What are the tests for hyperthyroidism?
- blood test
- radioactive iodine uptake test
- thyroid scan
What is the radioactive iodine uptake test?
Measures the amount of iodine that the thyroid is taking up into the blood stream
What are the lab findings for hyperthyroidism/ Graves’ disease?
Elevated levels of T3/4
Low levels of TSH
TSI anti bodies present (Graves’ disease)
What is the management of hyperthyroidism?
Thyroidectomy
Anti thyroid drugs - can inhibit function of T3/4
Radioiodine therapy - destroys cells of the thyroid gland producing excessive hormones
What is hypothyroidism?
Low levels of thyroid hormones are being expressed, gland is failing
What are the symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Lethargy, cold intolerance, constipation, weight gain
What is Hashimoto’s disease?
An autoimmune disease, immune system attacks thyroid, becomes inflamed and cannot make thyroid hormones - anti thyroid antibodies are used to do this
What are the lab findings if hypothyroidism?
TSH may be elevated
T3/4 may be normal
Anti thyroid antibodies are present - anti TPO confirms if it is autoimmune
