?:definition
|
-
Immunoassay reagents intended to perform qualitative and/or quantitative analyses on a body fluid sample (typically serum) to determine thyrotropin, also known as thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Thyrotropin is a hormone that is synthesized and released by the pituitary thyrotropes under the action of the thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) secreted by the hypothalamus. Both isotopic and nonisotopic methods (e.g., enzymatic) are used. High levels of thyrotropin are found in patients with primary hypothyroidism either inherited or acquired (i.e., when the thyroid gland is damaged); low levels of thyrotropin and high levels of the free component of thyroxin (FT4) are usually an indication of hyperthyroidism. Determination of thyrotropin is also used in the early identification (screening tests) in newborns for congenital hypothyroidism, typically after the determination of an abnormal level of thyroxin (T4).
|