There is concern that the upper reference interval value for TSH is set too high to detect subtle hypothyroid disease.It is suggested that the upper reference interval value be reduced to what level to address this concern?

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Most laboratories provide upper reference intervals for TSH concentration between 4.0 and 5.0 mU/L.There is concern that this upper limit is too high and includes persons with subtle hypothyroid disease.A recent survey showed that TSH concentrations above 2.0 mU/L were associated with an increased likelihood of subsequently developing hypothyroidism.It has also been shown that persons apparently free from thyroid disease but who had increased TPO antibodies had a higher TSH reference interval than did persons who were TPO antibody-negative.It has been suggested that the upper reference interval for TSH should be reduced to 3.0 mU/L.

There Is Concern That the Upper Reference Interval Value for TSH