A TSH test, or thyroid-stimulating hormone test, measures the amount of TSH in your blood. TSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that signals the thyroid to release hormones into the blood.
What it’s used for
- A TSH test can help diagnose thyroid problems, such as an underactive or overactive thyroid
- It can also help determine the best course of treatment
How it’s performed
- A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm
- The sample is then analyzed to determine your TSH level
What abnormal results mean
- High TSH: May indicate an underactive thyroid, or primary hypothyroidism
- Low TSH: May indicate an overactive thyroid, or hyperthyroidism
Other thyroid tests
- A thyroid ultrasound uses sound waves to examine the size, shape, and position of your thyroid gland
- A thyroid antibody test may be used to help diagnose autoimmune thyroid conditions