Question 1

Which thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level indicates hyperthyroidism?&#10;A) 0.2 uIU/L&#10;B) 0.4 uIU/L&#10;C) 2.4 uIU/L&#10;D) 4.2 uIU/L

Accepted Answer

A low TSH level indicates hyperthyroidism, and the TSH level of 0.2 uIU/L is the lowest among the given options.

Question 2

A postpartum woman develops fatigue, weight gain, and constipation. Laboratory values reveal elevated TSH and decreased T3 and T4 levels. What will the provider tell this patient?&#10;A) A thyroidectomy will be necessary.&#10;B) She should be referred to an endocrinologist.&#10;C) She will need lifelong medication.&#10;D) This condition may be transient.

Accepted Answer

The postpartum period is a common time for thyroid dysfunction to occur, and the symptoms described are consistent with hypothyroidism. In this setting, it is likely that the thyroid dysfunction is transient and related to the recent pregnancy. Therefore, the provider will likely reassure the patient that this is a common condition and will likely improve on its own. However, close monitoring and follow-up with laboratory testing may be required to ensure that the patient's thyroid function returns to normal. Medication or referral to an endocrinologist may be necessary if the condition persists or worsens. A thyroidectomy would not be necessary in this scenario.

Question 3

A patient has thyroid nodules and the provider suspects thyroid cancer. To evaluate thyroid nodules for potential malignancy, which test is performed?&#10;A) Radionucleotide imaging&#10;B) Serum calcitonin&#10;C) Serum TSH level&#10;D) Thyroid ultrasound

Accepted Answer

Thyroid ultrasound is the primary imaging modality used to evaluate thyroid nodules for potential malignancy. Radionucleotide imaging is used for functional evaluation of the thyroid gland. Serum calcitonin is used for diagnosing and monitoring medullary thyroid carcinoma. Serum TSH level is used to evaluate for thyroid dysfunction but does not differentiate between benign and malignant thyroid nodules.

Question 4

A 20-year-old female patient with tachycardia and weight loss but no optic symptoms presents with the following laboratory values: decreased TSH, increased T3, and increased T4 and free T4. A pregnancy test is negative. What is the initial treatment for this patient?

A) Beta blocker medications
B) Radioiodine therapy
C) Surgical resection of the thyroid gland
D) Thionamide therapy

Accepted Answer

Beta blocker medications are used initially to manage symptoms such as tachycardia in hyperthyroidism while further treatment options are considered.

Deck 194: Thyroid Disorders