thyroid function

Question 1

describe T4, TT4 and TSH in HYPERthyroidism

Answer 1

High T4 and TT4
Low TSH

Overactive thyroid means that thyroid gland is producing more T4 and TT4. Pituitary response is to produce less thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) due to high circulating thyroxine levels

Question 2

what is most commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism

Answer 2

carbimazole is more commonly used than propylthiouracil

Question 3

what is used in the treatment of thyrotoxicosis (thyrotoxic emergency)

Answer 3

propranolol most commonly used

note: can also use metoprolol, and nadolol

Question 4

what should you do if a patient taking levothyroxine gets palpitations /insomnia /tremors / diarrheoa/ pain

Answer 4

this is a sign the metabolism has increased too rapidly.

Reduce dose or withhold for 1–2 days and start again at a lower dose

Question 5

what are the T4, TT4 and TSH in HYPOthyroidism

Answer 5

low T4 and TT4

high TSH