Hypothyroidism - Secondary
Alternate Names : Pituitary Hypothyroidism
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Diagnosis & Tests
A physical exam usually reveals a small thyroid gland. Vital signs (temperature, pulse, rate of breathing, blood pressure) reveal a slow heart rate, low blood pressure, and low temperature.
A chest X-ray may reveal an enlarged heart.
Laboratory tests to determine thyroid function include:
- Free T4 test
- Total T3
- Serum TSH -- Results are generally low in secondary hypothyroidism because the pituitary is damaged. However, normal or even high values may be seen.
Additional laboratory abnormalities may include: Imaging will include an MRI of the pituitary to look for a tumor.
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