Need direction on thyroid/anemia

[wwindfall]

I am a 41 year old female.  Last August, I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism.  I was put on 50 mcg of synthroid per day.  In January, 2007, I was very tired and had symptoms of carpal tunnel.  I had a complete blood work, and my thyroglobulin ab was found to be very high (980 iu/ml).  I had follow-up blood work on February 23, 2007.  My results were as follows:
                   %T4 - 5.8
                   % Thryoid microsomal - 841
                   % Antithyroglobulin  - 744
                   %TSH/Ultra Sen - 2.45
                   %WBC - 8.3
                   %RBC - 4.11
                   %HGB - 10.3
                   %HCT - 30.8
                   %MCV - 75
                   %MCH - 25
Other results appeared in the normal range.  I was told I was anemic.  I had repeat blood work 2 days ago and my %HGB was down to 9.9.  I have been put on iron supplements and am being referref to an endocrinologist but cannot get in until July.  I am very concerned and would like some direction.  Should I push to get in earlier?  Should I try another specialist?  Thank-you!

[kpinnewnan]

I had similar problems several years ago. Because of the carpal tunnel syndrome symptoms, have them check your B12 levels. It turned out that I had Pernicious Anemia. It is an anemia which isn't because of iron deficiency, but is an autoimmune disorder which frequently affects people with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis. It means that your stomach doesn't produce enough Intrinsic Factor to process the B12 from your diet. I take B12 injections each month, which helps dramatically. Have the doc check the B12 levels. It is a simple test and a very easy fix. Good luck!

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

The anemia is not likely associated with thyroid.  Usually it's due to heavy menstrual periods.  Iron panel would be helpful -- could be useful to see a hematologist.

The antibodies against thyroglobulin and microsomal (aka TPO) suggest Hashimoto's as the cause of the hypothyroidism.  The TSH of 2.45 is a little higher than goal -- could ask the doc about an increase in synthroid.  Carpal tunnel can be aggravated by hypothyroidism.