A patient has a low fT4 level and low TSH level. However, after a TRH Stimulation test their TSH levels increased. How would this patient's thyroid condition be categorized? O primary hypothyroid O secondary hypothyroid tertiary hypothyroid O idiopathic hypothyroid
A patient has a low fT4 level and low TSH level. However, after a TRH Stimulation test their TSH levels increased. How would this patient's thyroid condition be categorized? O primary hypothyroid O secondary hypothyroid tertiary hypothyroid O idiopathic hypothyroid
Human Anatomy & Physiology (11th Edition)
11th Edition
ISBN:9780134580999
Author:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Publisher:Elaine N. Marieb, Katja N. Hoehn
Chapter1: The Human Body: An Orientation
Section: Chapter Questions
Problem 1RQ: The correct sequence of levels forming the structural hierarchy is A. (a) organ, organ system,...
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Transcribed Image Text:### Understanding Thyroid Conditions Based on Diagnostic Tests
**Context:**
A patient has presented with a low fT4 (free Thyroxine) level and a low TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) level. However, upon conducting a TRH (Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone) Stimulation test, their TSH levels increased.
### Key Question:
**How would this patient’s thyroid condition be categorized?**
### Options for Categorization:
1. **Primary Hypothyroid**:
- Characterized by problem originating in the thyroid gland itself.
- Typically involves elevated TSH levels as the pituitary gland compensates for low thyroid activity.
2. **Secondary Hypothyroid**:
- Caused by dysfunction in the pituitary gland.
- Generally results in low TSH levels due to underproduction by the pituitary gland, which impacts thyroid function.
3. **Tertiary Hypothyroid**:
- Due to a defect in the hypothalamus which fails to stimulate the pituitary gland to produce TSH.
- Usually results in low levels of TRH, and consequently low TSH and fT4 levels.
4. **Idiopathic Hypothyroid**:
- The term is used when the underlying cause of hypothyroidism cannot be identified.
### Explanation of Options in Context:
- **Primary Hypothyroid**: Unlikely given that TSH levels increased upon TRH stimulation which indicates pituitary response.
- **Secondary Hypothyroid**: More plausible because the TRH stimulation test showed a positive response (increase in TSH), pointing to defective pituitary production rather than a thyroid gland issue.
- **Tertiary Hypothyroid**: Less likely since the hypothalamus would fail to release TRH, leading to low TSH without ability for stimulation response.
- **Idiopathic Hypothyroid**: This diagnosis is used when no clear cause is found, but given test results detailed above, a secondary cause seems identifiable.
### Conclusion:
Based on the provided evidence and after a TRH Stimulation test showing increased TSH levels, the patient's thyroid condition would most accurately be categorized as **secondary hypothyroid**.
---
**Reference for Medical Professionals:**
It's crucial to consider hormonal pathways and stimulation tests in accurately diagnosing thyroid conditions, thereby ensuring targeted treatment and management plans.
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