Imperial College Healthcare - Clinical Biochemistry

Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH)

Test Background
TSH stimulates T3 and T4 production by the thyroid gland and is regulated by negative feedback of these hormones at the pituitary and hypothalamus. Thyroid disease affects 3-5 % of the population and TSH is one of the frontline tests used for diagnosis.

Clinical Indications

Signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism
Signs and symptoms of hyperthyroidism
Amiodarone and lithium therapy
Monitoring established thyroid disease

Reference Range

0.3-4.2 mIU/L

Sample Required
SST (gold top)

Sample Volume
0.5 mL

Turnaround Time
1 day