“What tests are used to diagnose thyroid diseases?”
After complaining about my daughter is tired all the time, her doctor thinks that she should be tested for thyroid issues. What tests are used to diagnose a thyroid problem, particularly in children?
4 Answers
Is diagnose in blood by measuring TSH, T4, T3, Free T4, Free T3 and clinically by your healthcare provider. Thank you.
Really an FNA and genetic testing for a lesion is still standard of care. We don't have blood test for it yet.
I am not sure there is a difference between child and adult testing. But usually they test the thyroid hormone known as free T4. They also test a hormone that stimulates the thyroid to work called TSH. The thyroid should be examined. She may need an ultrasound of the thyroid and possibly a CT/MRI scan of the head. The brain makes TSH. This should all be done under the direction of a pediatric endocrinologist. That is a specialist who deals with hormonal issues with children. One should alway try to get the child to go to bed at a decent hour. Take away electronics 1-2 hours before bed. These things should be done first before doing any sort of extensive testing.
Good luck.
RB Thomas, MD
Good luck.
RB Thomas, MD
TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone), T3 and T4, to begin with.
