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TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive

Also referred as

Thyrotropin

Thyrotropic hormone

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The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test helps measure the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in the body. This test is used to assess thyroid function and detect possible thyroid gland disorders. It is also performed with T3 and T4 tests as part of thyroid profile testing.

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Understanding TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive

The pituitary gland produces thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), also known as thyrotropin. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to release thyroid hormones triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). Together, TSH, T3, and T4 hormones control how your body uses and stores energy and maintains body weight and temperature.

The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test is highly accurate and can detect even small changes in the TSH levels. This test helps diagnose and monitor various thyroid disorders, such as:

Goiter,
Graves’ disease or Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.

These disorders can either be due to an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). The TSH screening test, along with T3 and T4, is also recommended for women during pregnancy. This ensures that pregnant women have adequate amounts of TSH. TSH is necessary for the healthy development of babies and to avoid pregnancy complications.

TSH levels may show marked fluctuations in an individual due to factors like aging, cold weather, or the time of day when they are evaluated. So, the daytime testing for TSH measurements is usually preferred. No special preparations are needed for the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test. However, do let the doctor know about all the medications being taken, as some of those can affect thyroid function.

Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs. Talk to the doctor about specific test results. The results will help them determine the medical condition and formulate an overall treatment plan. They may suggest lifestyle recommendations and medications if required to manage the condition.

Lifestyle Tips For Optimal TSH Levels:

🥤Hydration: Stay hydrated. Dehydration can temporarily alter thyroid hormone levels.

🥗Eat (Diet): Eat iodine-rich foods (e.g., dairy products, eggs, fish, nuts and seeds, berries, etc.) essential for thyroid hormone production.

🚴‍♀️Activity (Exercise): Exercise helps manage symptoms like weight changes, mood changes, and improves overall thyroid health.

😴Lifestyle (Stress and Sleep): Practice yoga, meditation, deep breathing, and prioritize quality sleep—both are vital for thyroid balance.

👨‍⚕️Talk to Your Doctor (Consult): Always consult a doctor before taking thyroid medication or making changes in medication doses.

🚭Habits (Alcohol and Smoking): These habits can suppress thyroid function.

What does TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive measure?

The TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive test measures the levels of TSH hormone in the blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland located in the brain. Its function is to stimulate and regulate the functioning of the thyroid gland. It signals the thyroid gland to increase or decrease the production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4 when their levels are low or high, respectively. Therefore, when the levels of T3 & T4 decrease, the pituitary gland is stimulated to release TSH. This high TSH level, in turn, stimulates the thyroid gland to release more thyroid hormones (T3 & T4); vice versa happens when the levels of thyroid hormones increase.

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FAQs related to TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive

Why is the TSH Ultrasensitive test performed?

The TSH Ultrasensitive test is performed if you have symptoms of hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

Is fasting required for the TSH Ultrasensitive test?

No, fasting is not needed before taking this test. However, your doctor will guide you if any special preparation is required.

Can my TSH Ultrasensitive test show variable results?

Yes, TSH levels in an individual may fluctuate due to a number of factors. TSH levels may show marked variation depending on the time when they are measured. So, daytime testing is usually preferred. Elevated TSH levels have also been observed with aging and during the cold winter months.

Is there any risk associated with the TSH Ultrasensitive test?

There is usually no risk associated with this test. Some people may feel a slight sting while the needle is pricked and may experience some bleeding that is normal and usually not bothersome. Some people may experience slight swelling or bruising at the site of the needle prick. Applying ice 3-4 times daily for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Can I take the TSH Ultrasensitive test during pregnancy?

Yes, the TSH is usually recommended during pregnancy. It measures the levels of thyroid hormones, as thyroid disorders can complicate pregnancy.

What are the causes of high TSH in a newborn?

Congenital hypothyroidism is a significant cause of elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in newborns. Other causes of an elevated TSH include transient hypothyroidism due to neonatal illness, premature birth, iodine excess, or deficiency. High TSH can also be seen in case the mother takes some medicines affecting thyroid hormones or has some underlying thyroid disease.

What is hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which there is an increased production of thyroid hormones. Causes of Hyperthyroidism include Graves’ disease, multinodular goiter, thyroid nodules, toxic adenoma, inflammation of the thyroid, eating too much iodine, and too much synthetic thyroid hormone. Diagnosis of this condition can help to relieve the symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

What is hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It can be commonly caused by intake of low iodine diet or Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune disease). Less common causes include previous treatment with radioactive iodine, injury to the pituitary gland, which secretes TSH, intake of certain medicines, previous thyroid surgery, or a lack of a functioning thyroid gland at birth.

What additional tests can be done with TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive?

Doctors often recommend some additional tests along with the TSH test to get a complete picture of your thyroid gland. These tests may include free T3, free T4, anti-TPO antibodies, thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), etc.

What is the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive price?

The price for this test can vary depending on the location and the laboratory.

What is the normal TSH range for males?

The normal TSH range for adult males usually falls between 0.55 and 4.78 IU/L. However, ideal levels may vary slightly based on age, lab standards, and overall health. It's important to interpret TSH results in the context of T3, T4, and symptoms.

Is the TSH range different for women during pregnancy?

Yes. TSH range is different for women during pregnancy compared to non-pregnant women.

What is subclinical hypothyroidism?

Subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH), also known as mild thyroid failure, is diagnosed when peripheral thyroid hormone levels (T3 and T4) remain within the normal range, but serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are mildly elevated.

Content created by

Dr. Anupriya Nautiyal

MD Pathology, MBBS

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Last Updated

18th Oct 2025