How do I know my lab is up to date.....

[selmaS]

Hi....I was wondering how I know if the lab is up to date on the ranges used to review my Hashimoto's results?
What are the typical ranges?

Any suggestions to get my PCP or ENDO to use current ranges??

Thanks
"selma"

[gimel]

The labs use their own reference ranges, but frequently use different units of measure.  The exception is probably TSH where there is a wide discrepancy between the old ranges (typically .5-5.0, or higher) and the one currently recommended by the AACE, which is .3-3.0.  I suggest that you get a copy of the actual lab report and post it here for responses.

Regarding your second question, I'd say that sexual harrassment or thumb screws would be the most effective.  LOL

[selmaS]

Hi...thumbscrews huh???...lol....

well Laura is the one that told me the range the lab was using was old....I was wondering how would we know...and where we could get that info.
I am sure I am not the only one with this issue.

my TSH  3.17  range 0.04-4.50
Free T 4 1.2     range 0.8-1.8
I am on synthroid for 5 weeks now 12.5 so it is half of a dosage....I was told it should be higher, but my ENDO ignorned it...and didn't do the proper labs for hashi's.

So again, I wonder how do I find a dr or lab...since I really do not understand all this.


My last US 9/08

right  nodule measures 1.6 x 0.7 x 0.9 cm
left nodule measures  0.7 x 0.6 x 0.5 cm

[gimel]

Here is a good link for you regarding TSH range.

http://www.altsupportthyroid.org/tsh/tshmedrefs1.php

Your TSH is above the new range.  Your FT4 is, of course, just slightly below the mid-point of the FT4 ranges.  To supplement these results, you really need a FT3 test, because FT3 is the most active of the thyroid hormones.  It is about 4 times as potent as FT4.  There are compelling reasons to regulate a thyroid patient's  meds by listening to their symptoms ( which is after all what you are trying to relieve) and testing and adjusting the FT level as required.  I think it would be worth your while to read through this prior message.


When TSH simply will NOT go down
by goolarra

, Apr 28, 2009 04:21PM

[redheadaussie]

Every country has their own reference ranges. Indeed, even different pathologies can have their own reference ranges!
It is best to continue to stick with the same lab if you can. Then you will have a consistent test range.
   Since you are in USA get a copy from AACE and take that to the doctor. S/he may turn up their nose at that, but bad luck to them! You are the patient! You pay them!
The test for Hashi's is called thyroid antibodies. You just say that you want that test done....if they say no, you say, fine I will find another endo..they don't like that at all!
   I often just say, how about we try it for a little while and if you are right then I will go back to the other dose. Often seems to placate their over inflated egos.
Good luck!

[selmaS]

Thank you all for ur replies.....I have fired my ENDO and am looking for another one in the meantime I had my PCP start me on synthroid and it is a very small dosage....and then the last set of tests he omitted the Free T 3 and felt I was in range so he would not increase the meds.

It is very frustrating....I really do not understand ne of this thyroid stuff.

And outside of losing hair and dry skin, I have no idea what symptoms r from my thyroid as I have many other conditions.

I do go to the same lab, in fact it is a large lab around here Quest.....it is the one I must go to for my insurance....just not sure y the ranges r so diff.

I will read the thread u suggested and agin thank u all so very much.  : )

"selma"