Key Tests Every Practitioner Should Order for Thyroid Health
A comprehensive approach to thyroid health requires accurate testing to assess not only thyroid hormone levels but also the underlying factors contributing to thyroid dysfunction. Below is a detailed checklist of tests every practitioner should consider when evaluating thyroid health.
1. Thyroid Hormone Panel
These tests provide a snapshot of thyroid gland activity and hormone availability:
- TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone)
- Indicates how much stimulation the thyroid is receiving from the pituitary gland.
- Optimal range: 0.5–2.5 mIU/L (note that lab reference ranges may vary and can be too broad).
