Hello,
The administration of corticosteroids was reported to cause suppression on thyroid function directly or indirectly in different studies.
This effect is known to be transient and the normal thyroid function is expected to be gradually regained after steroid withdrawal.
Thyroid hypofunction is treated with thyroid hormone replacement.
Thyroid-stimulating hormone
TSH Normal range is 0.4–4.5mIU/L.
Thyroid hyperfunction is diagnosed by testing for:
-Thyroid-stimulating hormone (
TSH), a low level of
TSH means the thyroid gland is overactive and is making too much thyroxine.
- Thyroxine (
T4), a high level of
T4 confirms
hyperthyroidism.
Borderline results are defined by a normal
T4 with a low
TSH. In this case, another blood test for another thyroid hormone named
T3 is helpful.
A way to confirm is to repeat the tests a few weeks later, as sometimes borderline tests are caused by another illness. When
TSH is lower than 0.1 mIU/L, repeating the measurement of
TSH, as well as Free
T4 and a total
T3 or Free
T3, within 4 weeks of the initial measurement or within a shorter interval if there are signs or symptoms of
hyperthyroidism.
Other tests like Ultrasonography of the thyroid gland may show a nodule (or nodules) in the thyroid and a thyroid scan is done as needed.
Borderline
hyperthyroidism is seen postviral infection and postpartum. Thyroid dysfunction is more common on those who have previous thyroid dysfunction or autoimmune diseases.
Subclinical
hyperthyroidism due to destructive thyroiditis including postviral subacute thyroiditis usually resolves spontaneously. Treatment is usually initiated when concerning symptoms or signs are present.
I advise you to follow up with your doctor and to discuss with him all your concerns.
Hope you find this information useful.
Best regards.
This answer does not substitute for direct medical consultation.
Dr. Safaa Mahmoud.
MB BCh, MSc Internal Medicine. MD Medical Oncology.
PhD Experimental Medicine and Biochemical Science.
