Intermediate
Technical
In the Industry Vocabulary Test
thyroid-stimulating hormone
A pituitary hormone measured in newborn screening to detect congenital hypothyroidism.
Full Definition
Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates thyroid hormone production. In newborn screening, elevated TSH levels indicate primary congenital hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland fails to produce adequate hormone. This is one of the most successful newborn screening programs, preventing intellectual disability when detected early.
Usage
Usage note: Commonly abbreviated as TSH in clinical practice.
In Context
- "The TSH result was within normal limits, ruling out congenital hypothyroidism." — Screening report
- "Thyroid-stimulating hormone levels may be transiently elevated in sick newborns." — Clinical guideline
Also known as
TSH
thyrotropin
Don't confuse with
T4
thyroxine