Aa
Thyroid test, to believe it or not?
Hi everybody,
My little 4 1/2 year old daughter had some blood teststs done in July and another one in September. The reason for the test was an exsess body hair, legs, arms, back but none in the androgenic areas. The July Thyroid test results were TSH=1.9 ,FT4=13.4 ,FT3= 5.6 . The doc said all was OK. The second test in September came out as TSH=0.16 , FT4=13.6 , FT3=6 . We haven't see the doc yet.
It is my suspicion that somehow she is making a bit more FT3, just enough in exsess to alter the the body hair normal cycles of growth, regretion and rest.
The FT4 and FT3 do not look too much different but the TSH is way out of line on the second test. I would like to point out that as she is only 4 and a half, she is really expected to have higher TSH, maybe in the region of 2 to 3. She is not exactly a typical Hyper.., but I can say that she tolerates cold a lot better than her brother and night time the blanket is allways off.
From researching I got idea that the FT4/ FT3 should be around 2.5 or slightly more. Ideal should be 2.5 . Her's is, the first one 2.39 and the second 2.26 , indicating she is converting a bit too much or is she?
I agree that by just looking at the reference ranges you can't always say if one has problematic thyroid or TSH (pituitary). Everybody is different to extent and Thyroid hormone values could be at different spot for everyone, slight variation up or down within the ref range and we have a problem.
I would like to hear your opinion as I am desperately hoping to resolve the original symptom.
PS. My thyroid seems OK, but my birth family have history of thyroid problems, hyper and hypo.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.
My little 4 1/2 year old daughter had some blood teststs done in July and another one in September. The reason for the test was an exsess body hair, legs, arms, back but none in the androgenic areas. The July Thyroid test results were TSH=1.9 ,FT4=13.4 ,FT3= 5.6 . The doc said all was OK. The second test in September came out as TSH=0.16 , FT4=13.6 , FT3=6 . We haven't see the doc yet.
It is my suspicion that somehow she is making a bit more FT3, just enough in exsess to alter the the body hair normal cycles of growth, regretion and rest.
The FT4 and FT3 do not look too much different but the TSH is way out of line on the second test. I would like to point out that as she is only 4 and a half, she is really expected to have higher TSH, maybe in the region of 2 to 3. She is not exactly a typical Hyper.., but I can say that she tolerates cold a lot better than her brother and night time the blanket is allways off.
From researching I got idea that the FT4/ FT3 should be around 2.5 or slightly more. Ideal should be 2.5 . Her's is, the first one 2.39 and the second 2.26 , indicating she is converting a bit too much or is she?
I agree that by just looking at the reference ranges you can't always say if one has problematic thyroid or TSH (pituitary). Everybody is different to extent and Thyroid hormone values could be at different spot for everyone, slight variation up or down within the ref range and we have a problem.
I would like to hear your opinion as I am desperately hoping to resolve the original symptom.
PS. My thyroid seems OK, but my birth family have history of thyroid problems, hyper and hypo.
Thanks for taking the time to read this.
To help us assess your daughter's status, please post the reference ranges for those thyroid tests. Since test results and ranges will vary from lab to lab, we need to see where the results fall within the lab's reference range.
While you are at it, why not post whatever thyroid test results and reference ranges you have for yourself as well.
While you are at it, why not post whatever thyroid test results and reference ranges you have for yourself as well.
Thank you "gmel",
The first set of tests were:
Thyroid Function Test:
Free T3 5.6 pmol/L (5.2-10.2) Ref Range
Free T4 13.4 pmol/L (10.8-19.0)
TSH 1.9 mU/L ( <6 )
Thyroid Binding Globulin 20 mg/L (16.0-24.0)
Thyroid Antibodies negative
Gonadotrophins:
LH <0.2 L IU/L (0.7-0.9)
FSH 2.0 IU/L (0.2-2.6)
Androstenedione <1.05 nmol/L ( prepubertal children <1)
Testosterone <0.69 nmol/L ( prepubertal children <0.8)
17 OHP <1 nmol/L ( 0-5 )
Oestradiol <44 pmol/L ( )
ACTH 9.53 L ng/L (10.0-50.0)
Glucose 4.0 mmol/L (3.5-5.5)
Triglycerides 0.53 mmol/L (0.36-1.31)
11-Deoxycortisol 3.8 nmol/L (5.0-12.1)
Urine steroid profile came back with the comments: "Normal output of androgens. Raised output of cortisol metabolities. Excretion pattern of steroids suggestive of adrenarche. Please provide clinical details."
I do not think personally that those thyroid ranges do any good, they are way too broad.
The second test the values were:
Thyroid Function Test:
Free T3 6.0 pmol/L (2.5-5.7) corrected to (4.28-7.23)
Free T4 13.6 pmol/L (9.0-26)
TSH 0.16 mU/L ( 0.3-4.2 ) corrected to (0.66-7.23)
FSH 2.3 IU/L (<1.5) questionable range
LH <0.5 IU/L
SHBG 135 nmol/L (30-100) questioanble range
For the second test of FT3 which was done at different hospital, the lab had printed completely different ranges, way off the mark. When I phoned them to see what's going on they said that they only have one range for FT3 listed in their Lab Book, a range of (2.5-5.7) that they assumed should be for children and adults. That was the most irresponsible thing to do since kids usually have higher FT3 and TSH than adults. I had to track down their Biochemist Scientist and question those ranges. She looked it up in a book that only she has and gave me different range for FT3 (4.28-7.23), then promised me to leave a comment on the report.
My personal Thyroid test have always been OK, it was members of my birth family that had hypo and hyper. But anyhow here is my Thyroid values:
TSH 1.02
FT3 4.8
FT4 12.1
The endo who checked them said they were OK. Don't have ref. ranges for them. But notice the FT4/FT3 is 2.5 . Acording to my research and observations, one should expect it to be 2.5 or slightly more.
My daughter's is 2.39 the first test and 2.2 the second. I do not know why and what could that indicate. Also how can the TSH drops from 1.9 to 0.16 without major jump in the FT4 and FT3.???
I am desperate to resolve the body hair issue before my little girl notice anything and become self conscious. It is not hereditary, since neither I am or my wife is, neither the grandparents on either side. I am not a doctor and yet I feel I have learn and check that things are done acurately for reasons like for example the wrong ref. ranges used to make a diagnosis.
Anyhow, hope the above makes sence to someone.
Thanks
The first set of tests were:
Thyroid Function Test:
Free T3 5.6 pmol/L (5.2-10.2) Ref Range
Free T4 13.4 pmol/L (10.8-19.0)
TSH 1.9 mU/L ( <6 )
Thyroid Binding Globulin 20 mg/L (16.0-24.0)
Thyroid Antibodies negative
Gonadotrophins:
LH <0.2 L IU/L (0.7-0.9)
FSH 2.0 IU/L (0.2-2.6)
Androstenedione <1.05 nmol/L ( prepubertal children <1)
Testosterone <0.69 nmol/L ( prepubertal children <0.8)
17 OHP <1 nmol/L ( 0-5 )
Oestradiol <44 pmol/L ( )
ACTH 9.53 L ng/L (10.0-50.0)
Glucose 4.0 mmol/L (3.5-5.5)
Triglycerides 0.53 mmol/L (0.36-1.31)
11-Deoxycortisol 3.8 nmol/L (5.0-12.1)
Urine steroid profile came back with the comments: "Normal output of androgens. Raised output of cortisol metabolities. Excretion pattern of steroids suggestive of adrenarche. Please provide clinical details."
I do not think personally that those thyroid ranges do any good, they are way too broad.
The second test the values were:
Thyroid Function Test:
Free T3 6.0 pmol/L (2.5-5.7) corrected to (4.28-7.23)
Free T4 13.6 pmol/L (9.0-26)
TSH 0.16 mU/L ( 0.3-4.2 ) corrected to (0.66-7.23)
FSH 2.3 IU/L (<1.5) questionable range
LH <0.5 IU/L
SHBG 135 nmol/L (30-100) questioanble range
For the second test of FT3 which was done at different hospital, the lab had printed completely different ranges, way off the mark. When I phoned them to see what's going on they said that they only have one range for FT3 listed in their Lab Book, a range of (2.5-5.7) that they assumed should be for children and adults. That was the most irresponsible thing to do since kids usually have higher FT3 and TSH than adults. I had to track down their Biochemist Scientist and question those ranges. She looked it up in a book that only she has and gave me different range for FT3 (4.28-7.23), then promised me to leave a comment on the report.
My personal Thyroid test have always been OK, it was members of my birth family that had hypo and hyper. But anyhow here is my Thyroid values:
TSH 1.02
FT3 4.8
FT4 12.1
The endo who checked them said they were OK. Don't have ref. ranges for them. But notice the FT4/FT3 is 2.5 . Acording to my research and observations, one should expect it to be 2.5 or slightly more.
My daughter's is 2.39 the first test and 2.2 the second. I do not know why and what could that indicate. Also how can the TSH drops from 1.9 to 0.16 without major jump in the FT4 and FT3.???
I am desperate to resolve the body hair issue before my little girl notice anything and become self conscious. It is not hereditary, since neither I am or my wife is, neither the grandparents on either side. I am not a doctor and yet I feel I have learn and check that things are done acurately for reasons like for example the wrong ref. ranges used to make a diagnosis.
Anyhow, hope the above makes sence to someone.
Thanks
I wonder if the time of the day that the TSH is taken, matters for the reading. Does it peaks and drops during the day or it should be pretty much stable.
Also is it influenced by normal day to day phsycological upsets or joy?
Thanks
Also is it influenced by normal day to day phsycological upsets or joy?
Thanks
Haven't forgotten your questions here. Several members are doing some searching around for info because there may be more than thyroid issues involved with your daughter.
Regarding your last question on TSH, the answer is yes it does vary during the day. Studies have shown as much as 70% higher from low around 9 a.m. to high around 9 p.m. Also, TSH is a pituitary hormone that is affected by many variables, to the extent that it is inadequate as a diagnostic. At best it is only an indicator, to be considered along with more important indicators such as symptoms, and also levels of the biologically active thyroid hormones, Free T3 and Free T4.
Regarding your last question on TSH, the answer is yes it does vary during the day. Studies have shown as much as 70% higher from low around 9 a.m. to high around 9 p.m. Also, TSH is a pituitary hormone that is affected by many variables, to the extent that it is inadequate as a diagnostic. At best it is only an indicator, to be considered along with more important indicators such as symptoms, and also levels of the biologically active thyroid hormones, Free T3 and Free T4.
Thank you "gimel" and everybody else who looked and considered this case.
"gimel" on the subject of TSH and its importance I totaly agree with you. I felt like I finally found somebody who think the same as me and that gives me a boost of confidence when and if I try to defend my opinion in front of old fashioned doctors.
Looking forward to read your opinions when you are ready to write one.
Thanks a lot everybody.
"gimel" on the subject of TSH and its importance I totaly agree with you. I felt like I finally found somebody who think the same as me and that gives me a boost of confidence when and if I try to defend my opinion in front of old fashioned doctors.
Looking forward to read your opinions when you are ready to write one.
Thanks a lot everybody.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Thyroid issues are generally associated with hair loss, rather than excessive hair growth. I've done a bit of research, and only found one site that mentioned excessive hair growth with thyroid issues of any kind. However, excessive hair growth can be an endocrine issue, though not necessarily thyroid, even though the thyroid is part of the endocrine system.
I did read that it's entirely possible to have the excessive hair growth, even though androgen levels are normal. It's possible that the hair follicles are more sensitive to the normal androgen levels. The second FSH is high, but not sure about the "questionable range". FSH regulates the development, growth, pubertal maturation, and reproductive processes of the body
The urine steroid profile suggests adrenarche as a possibility. Adrenarche is a process related to puberty, but distinct from hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal maturation and function. I'd have to do more research, but it sounds like this can occasionally take place quite early.
I notice that your daughter's SHBG is elevated; however, there is, again, the "questionable range" beside it. Low SHBG may be related to several issues, including hypothyroidism, while high SHBG may be associated with hyperthyroidism. High levels of growth hormone, estrogen or thyroxine (T4) can increase SHBG; however, neither of your daughter's FT4 levels can be considered high, so I'd most likely rule that one out.
I also see that her ACTH is low. ACTH is produced and secreted by the pituitary gland and is an important component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. It's often produced in response to biological stress.
With the exception of the one low TSH, I don't really see anything indicative a thyroid issue. I do think you should look at possible adrenal function, growth hormone levels, etc. I'd suggest that you have the thyroid levels tested periodically, and you might want to think about getting a thyroid ultra sound.
I did read that it's entirely possible to have the excessive hair growth, even though androgen levels are normal. It's possible that the hair follicles are more sensitive to the normal androgen levels. The second FSH is high, but not sure about the "questionable range". FSH regulates the development, growth, pubertal maturation, and reproductive processes of the body
The urine steroid profile suggests adrenarche as a possibility. Adrenarche is a process related to puberty, but distinct from hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal maturation and function. I'd have to do more research, but it sounds like this can occasionally take place quite early.
I notice that your daughter's SHBG is elevated; however, there is, again, the "questionable range" beside it. Low SHBG may be related to several issues, including hypothyroidism, while high SHBG may be associated with hyperthyroidism. High levels of growth hormone, estrogen or thyroxine (T4) can increase SHBG; however, neither of your daughter's FT4 levels can be considered high, so I'd most likely rule that one out.
I also see that her ACTH is low. ACTH is produced and secreted by the pituitary gland and is an important component of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. It's often produced in response to biological stress.
With the exception of the one low TSH, I don't really see anything indicative a thyroid issue. I do think you should look at possible adrenal function, growth hormone levels, etc. I'd suggest that you have the thyroid levels tested periodically, and you might want to think about getting a thyroid ultra sound.
I have to say that I'm still a little uncomfortable with the ranges on your daughter's two FT3 tests. If the ranges are to be believed (the second as corrected to 4.28 to 7.23), she went from 8% of range on the first test to 58% on the second. That's a huge jump. However, that jump is compatable with the rapid decrease in TSH. Interestingly, FT4 was quite stable through all this.
To answer one of yout original questions on whether she converts too much T4 to T3. I would say definitely not. At 8%, she's barely in range, and at 58%, she's still well within (even a little on the low side) of the upper half of range that most of us feel well in.
I see I'm flirting with the 11:00 am PDT that MH is shutting down for maintenance, so I'll post and comment further later.
To answer one of yout original questions on whether she converts too much T4 to T3. I would say definitely not. At 8%, she's barely in range, and at 58%, she's still well within (even a little on the low side) of the upper half of range that most of us feel well in.
I see I'm flirting with the 11:00 am PDT that MH is shutting down for maintenance, so I'll post and comment further later.
Thank you "Barb135"
On the second test I have put down "questionable range" due to the lack of knowledge of the lab that children often have different ranges than adults. As I already mentioned I only phoned in to question the TSH and FT3 with their chief hospital Biochemist Scientist. Only then I was given the different ranges that I have included as "corrected to", the rest is still questioable. From my research FSH should be exactly at 2.3, often quoted as the median of the range. SHBG is usually higher for children, but yet again who am I to argue with the lab that was probably responsible for hundrends of wrong diagnoses based on their unupdated ranges. I can not comment, what the paediatric endos relying fully on the labs reports would say about this. As far as I am concerned every good endo should know where the values should be, if not from medical schol then atleast from experience. After all they study to become endos for more than 10 years. Just my opinion.
Lastly I agree with you on the other points that it might not be just or at all the thyroid. From my research I have come accross a lot of cases where the docs would treat a child for hypothyroidism or hyper and their primary symptom of increased body hair gets resolved. It is not explaned fully or understood why those body hair folicles sometimes would shut down on severe hypo or hyper patients and sometimes a problem with more than normal body hair gets resolved when the Thyroid hormones get back where they need to be.
I have come across, quote: "In research studies it has been shown that hair follicles express thyroid hormone receptors and they can respond with increased hair growth when exposed to the thyroid derived hormone triiodothyronine (T3)." and " However, occasionally there are reports of people with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism experiencing hypertrichosis - an excess of hair growth. This might be expected in people with mild hyperthyroidism, where a modest increase in thyroid hormones may stimulate the hair follicles into increased growth but not be so high as to be toxic for the cells."
For those who might be in the same bandwagon or fall into it in the future here is the link:http://www.keratin.com/ab/ab011.shtml
Even though the following is a bit extreme but still usefull to know is the following link: http://www.nature.com/jp/journal/v26/n4/full/7211461a.html
Due to my births family of thyroid disorders and I forgot to mention my wife's side family too, I feel there might be a strong possibility that we may be having a case of mild or subclinical hyperthyroidism where the FT3 is just a bit higher but still in range. It is a difficult one and I do not know where to beging to get some indication if this is the case. Most endos would just send you away, lets hope I get a good one that is willing to think outside the constrains imposed by old fashioned believes.
Thanks again for your time to put down your opinion and also research on my account.
On the second test I have put down "questionable range" due to the lack of knowledge of the lab that children often have different ranges than adults. As I already mentioned I only phoned in to question the TSH and FT3 with their chief hospital Biochemist Scientist. Only then I was given the different ranges that I have included as "corrected to", the rest is still questioable. From my research FSH should be exactly at 2.3, often quoted as the median of the range. SHBG is usually higher for children, but yet again who am I to argue with the lab that was probably responsible for hundrends of wrong diagnoses based on their unupdated ranges. I can not comment, what the paediatric endos relying fully on the labs reports would say about this. As far as I am concerned every good endo should know where the values should be, if not from medical schol then atleast from experience. After all they study to become endos for more than 10 years. Just my opinion.
Lastly I agree with you on the other points that it might not be just or at all the thyroid. From my research I have come accross a lot of cases where the docs would treat a child for hypothyroidism or hyper and their primary symptom of increased body hair gets resolved. It is not explaned fully or understood why those body hair folicles sometimes would shut down on severe hypo or hyper patients and sometimes a problem with more than normal body hair gets resolved when the Thyroid hormones get back where they need to be.
I have come across, quote: "In research studies it has been shown that hair follicles express thyroid hormone receptors and they can respond with increased hair growth when exposed to the thyroid derived hormone triiodothyronine (T3)." and " However, occasionally there are reports of people with hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism experiencing hypertrichosis - an excess of hair growth. This might be expected in people with mild hyperthyroidism, where a modest increase in thyroid hormones may stimulate the hair follicles into increased growth but not be so high as to be toxic for the cells."
For those who might be in the same bandwagon or fall into it in the future here is the link:http://www.keratin.com/ab/ab011.shtml
Even though the following is a bit extreme but still usefull to know is the following link: http://www.nature.com/jp/journal/v26/n4/full/7211461a.html
Due to my births family of thyroid disorders and I forgot to mention my wife's side family too, I feel there might be a strong possibility that we may be having a case of mild or subclinical hyperthyroidism where the FT3 is just a bit higher but still in range. It is a difficult one and I do not know where to beging to get some indication if this is the case. Most endos would just send you away, lets hope I get a good one that is willing to think outside the constrains imposed by old fashioned believes.
Thanks again for your time to put down your opinion and also research on my account.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Since you seem very distrustful of the lab that did the analysis, maybe you could try to get the tests done at a different lab?
The second set of tests was done in Sept, which would be close to 6 weeks ago, so assuming that you'd want to keep a close eye on the situation, it would be about time to retest to see where all of your daughter's levels are now. If possible, this should be done at a lab you trust. You might even want to talk to the lab prior in order to insure quality.
You mentioned that both your and your wife's family have a history of thyroid disease. Have either you or your wife been diagnosed with a thyroid issue? Has the hypertrichosis showed up in any other family members with thyroid disease?
The second set of tests was done in Sept, which would be close to 6 weeks ago, so assuming that you'd want to keep a close eye on the situation, it would be about time to retest to see where all of your daughter's levels are now. If possible, this should be done at a lab you trust. You might even want to talk to the lab prior in order to insure quality.
You mentioned that both your and your wife's family have a history of thyroid disease. Have either you or your wife been diagnosed with a thyroid issue? Has the hypertrichosis showed up in any other family members with thyroid disease?
I agree that a third set of labs wouldn't hurt. I'd have a discussion with the lab beforehand to make sure they have ranges adjusted for age and that those ranges get on the lab report that goes to the doctor.
"As far as I am concerned every good endo should know where the values should be, if not from medical schol then atleast from experience. After all they study to become endos for more than 10 years." Unfortunately, it's not that simple since the values that "should be" are very individual for all of us. Most people have to have levels adjusted to fairly high in the ranges; I'm quite comfortable barely in the lower end of the ranges. Add to that that different labs, using different methods, have different "normal" populations, and range becomes even more illusive.
I have to say that were I convinced that this was a thyroid problem, I really wouldn't know how to suggest you go about treating it. FT4 is a little on the low side in both labs. FT3 (still questionable, in my opinion) varied from 8% to 58% of range. Yet, you feel that her symptoms are hyper, which is not supported in those labs. I really wouldn't know whether to suggest treatment for hypo or hyper. I feel that the results are not definitive enough to medicate (at this time).
I believe gimel suggested above that you have an ultrasound, and I'd agree with that to rule out the possibility of a hyperfunctioning nodule. Hyperfunctioning nodules put out T3 independent of the influence of TSH. T3 is produced in spurts, so FT3 levels can vary wildly. Has anyone in either of your families ever been diagnosed with Plummer's Disease?
"As far as I am concerned every good endo should know where the values should be, if not from medical schol then atleast from experience. After all they study to become endos for more than 10 years." Unfortunately, it's not that simple since the values that "should be" are very individual for all of us. Most people have to have levels adjusted to fairly high in the ranges; I'm quite comfortable barely in the lower end of the ranges. Add to that that different labs, using different methods, have different "normal" populations, and range becomes even more illusive.
I have to say that were I convinced that this was a thyroid problem, I really wouldn't know how to suggest you go about treating it. FT4 is a little on the low side in both labs. FT3 (still questionable, in my opinion) varied from 8% to 58% of range. Yet, you feel that her symptoms are hyper, which is not supported in those labs. I really wouldn't know whether to suggest treatment for hypo or hyper. I feel that the results are not definitive enough to medicate (at this time).
I believe gimel suggested above that you have an ultrasound, and I'd agree with that to rule out the possibility of a hyperfunctioning nodule. Hyperfunctioning nodules put out T3 independent of the influence of TSH. T3 is produced in spurts, so FT3 levels can vary wildly. Has anyone in either of your families ever been diagnosed with Plummer's Disease?
The first test was a 12h fasting one the second was a normal one with a breakfast. I just wonder it that somehow could have pushed the TSH so low down from 1.9 to 0.16 . FT4 and FT3 did not move so much though. Risking to sound even crazy, it crossed my mind that the second test TSH value could have been a human typing error, just puting the decimal point in the wrong place. If it was 1.6, then maybe would have made sence. I know what you might be thinking, - "paranoia".
COMMUNITY LEADER
TSH is variable for a variety of reasons (this is why TSH is useless as a diagnostic), so without follow up tests to see where your daughter is now, you won't know. I would doubt that the result is a typo, but anything's possible.
Thyroid blood work should always be done in the same manner - in other words, if it's done once fasting, it should always be done fasting; and it should always be done near the same time of day
I really think you need to take your daughter to a different lab, for the same tests.
Thyroid blood work should always be done in the same manner - in other words, if it's done once fasting, it should always be done fasting; and it should always be done near the same time of day
I really think you need to take your daughter to a different lab, for the same tests.
Hi "goolarra",
Could you please explain how did you work out those persentages of FT3, 8% and 58%, and what is their significance. The FT3 went up from 5.6 to 6, and the FT4 from 12.4 to 12.6 ???
Thanks
Could you please explain how did you work out those persentages of FT3, 8% and 58%, and what is their significance. The FT3 went up from 5.6 to 6, and the FT4 from 12.4 to 12.6 ???
Thanks
When you have different reference ranges (sometimes they vary because they're expressed in different units, sometimes it has to do with the labs' methods and/or equipment), you can convert the numbers to a percentage of range to compare them.
The math for the first labs:
Upper limit of range - lower limit of range (10.2 - 5.2 = 5.0)
Result - lower limit of range (5.6 - 5.2 = 0.4)
Divide second result by first X 100 (0.4 / 5.0 X 100 = 8%)
For the second:
7.23 - 4.28 = 2.95
6.0 - 4.28 = 1.72
1.72 / 2.95 X 100 = 58%
As a rule of thumb (which like all rules is broken by many of us), FT4 should be about midrange (50%). Your daughter's were at 32% and 27%, respectively for the two tests. This is a little low.
FT3's rule of thumb is upper half to upper third of range. At 8%, her FT3 was dismally low, but at 58% looked excellent. However, this kind of variation is fairly unusual. That's why I'm questioning the range from one or both labs...it seems too inconsistent to me, and we already know there was some confusion.
I'm not thinking paranoia at all...I'd verify both those lab ranges again. I agree with Barb...get another test at a lab you trust and make sure you get ranges accurately adjusted for your daughter's age.
I'd also once again suggest a thyroid ultrasound.
The math for the first labs:
Upper limit of range - lower limit of range (10.2 - 5.2 = 5.0)
Result - lower limit of range (5.6 - 5.2 = 0.4)
Divide second result by first X 100 (0.4 / 5.0 X 100 = 8%)
For the second:
7.23 - 4.28 = 2.95
6.0 - 4.28 = 1.72
1.72 / 2.95 X 100 = 58%
As a rule of thumb (which like all rules is broken by many of us), FT4 should be about midrange (50%). Your daughter's were at 32% and 27%, respectively for the two tests. This is a little low.
FT3's rule of thumb is upper half to upper third of range. At 8%, her FT3 was dismally low, but at 58% looked excellent. However, this kind of variation is fairly unusual. That's why I'm questioning the range from one or both labs...it seems too inconsistent to me, and we already know there was some confusion.
I'm not thinking paranoia at all...I'd verify both those lab ranges again. I agree with Barb...get another test at a lab you trust and make sure you get ranges accurately adjusted for your daughter's age.
I'd also once again suggest a thyroid ultrasound.
Thanks "goolarra" and "Barb135" for your help so far.
"goolarra" thanks for the percentage explanation, I will keep an eye in the future on those levels.
My understanding so far was that the diagnostic machines the modern labs are using nowaday are more or less callibrated to give accurate mesurment of the actual value in given units of, lets say FT3, TSH and so on. However those diagnostic machines, like for example "Abbott ARCHITECT ci8200" do not come with a recomended ref ranges as they could be used in any part of the world where the iodine consumpsion could be different. It's down to the lab to either commission their own private statistical researsh or use one of the already completed ones by an independant bodys utilizing that particular diagnostic machine. This is why in my opinion two hospital within the same town using the same diagnostic machine could quote so much broader or narrower ref ranges. I have not read this or been told about it, it was just my assumption.
I am not a doctor, and you know those labs do not like to give info to outsiders. Anyhow, thanks very much for your help so far.
Below is a link of one such research. You can see how it stacks up to similar researched done by other diagnostic machines like "Advia Centaur"
"goolarra" thanks for the percentage explanation, I will keep an eye in the future on those levels.
My understanding so far was that the diagnostic machines the modern labs are using nowaday are more or less callibrated to give accurate mesurment of the actual value in given units of, lets say FT3, TSH and so on. However those diagnostic machines, like for example "Abbott ARCHITECT ci8200" do not come with a recomended ref ranges as they could be used in any part of the world where the iodine consumpsion could be different. It's down to the lab to either commission their own private statistical researsh or use one of the already completed ones by an independant bodys utilizing that particular diagnostic machine. This is why in my opinion two hospital within the same town using the same diagnostic machine could quote so much broader or narrower ref ranges. I have not read this or been told about it, it was just my assumption.
I am not a doctor, and you know those labs do not like to give info to outsiders. Anyhow, thanks very much for your help so far.
Below is a link of one such research. You can see how it stacks up to similar researched done by other diagnostic machines like "Advia Centaur"
Sorry, forgot to paste the link, here it is: http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6823/8/15
Sorry, I did not mean to repeat posting the link, but when I did it went way up the thread, here it is again:http://www.biomedcentral.com/1472-6823/8/15
Some alternative, you may wish to try.
Thyroid point – press the fleshy bit on palm between the base of thumb and wrist on both hands. If you feel sharp pain when you press, then you have a possible thyroid problem.
If the pain is felt,then do the the following in a fun way, without mentioning thyroid.
Press the thyroid point several times, massage the whole hand, do clapping everyday(so the point gets pressed on both hands).
Opening and closing the fists tight, with the fingers landing on the thyroid point will help as well.
Turn the head left, right, up and down slowly(in a fun way), so the thyroid gland gets stimulated.
The child may prevent you touching the hand, if the pain is sharp, so handle with care.
When the thyroid point pain goes down, you may start to notice the difference, in the child.
October 24, 2011
Thyroid point – press the fleshy bit on palm between the base of thumb and wrist on both hands. If you feel sharp pain when you press, then you have a possible thyroid problem.
If the pain is felt,then do the the following in a fun way, without mentioning thyroid.
Press the thyroid point several times, massage the whole hand, do clapping everyday(so the point gets pressed on both hands).
Opening and closing the fists tight, with the fingers landing on the thyroid point will help as well.
Turn the head left, right, up and down slowly(in a fun way), so the thyroid gland gets stimulated.
The child may prevent you touching the hand, if the pain is sharp, so handle with care.
When the thyroid point pain goes down, you may start to notice the difference, in the child.
October 24, 2011
I guess this would have to be done by someone who know exactly what, where and with what force need to push. Surely, if you get a bit carried away you could hurt anybody. I will try that on the wife. Interesting post, thanks.
COMMUNITY LEADER
You could particularly hurt a 4 yr old such as your daughter, if not careful, and it's unlikely the above technique will do much, as I've seen the same instructions posted for other issues.
I agree with you on both points: The ranges are very broad (broader than for adults, which is bad news), and two labs in the same city, using the same equipment, should have more similar (the same?) ranges.
I eyeballed the range for your daughter's age group on the link you provided. Since it's a chart, I came up with roughly 4.25-7.5 as the range that 95% fall into. Interestingly, that's very close to the range from the second lab (4.28-7.23). If, indeed, both labs use the same methodology, I'd feel fairly confident applying that range to both labs.
That would put your daughter's result of 5.6 at the 44th percentile and the second result of 6.0 at the 58th percentile, which would indicate that she's hovering right around midrange, which is good.
The upshot of all this is that both FT3 and FT4 have been not only in range, but well away from the extremes of the ranges in both cases. The only result out of range is the TSH of 0.16. As gimel pointed out above, TSH is volatile, even the time of day the blood was drawn can effect it. Though you might want to keep a watchful eye on thyroid labs, I really am having a hard time seeing a thyroid problem in your daughter's labs.
I'd suggest a thyroid ultrasound to rule out any autonymous nodules. However, I think I'd continue to pursue other possible causes of your daughter's symptoms.
This, of course, is just my opinion as a layperson, not a medical professional.
I eyeballed the range for your daughter's age group on the link you provided. Since it's a chart, I came up with roughly 4.25-7.5 as the range that 95% fall into. Interestingly, that's very close to the range from the second lab (4.28-7.23). If, indeed, both labs use the same methodology, I'd feel fairly confident applying that range to both labs.
That would put your daughter's result of 5.6 at the 44th percentile and the second result of 6.0 at the 58th percentile, which would indicate that she's hovering right around midrange, which is good.
The upshot of all this is that both FT3 and FT4 have been not only in range, but well away from the extremes of the ranges in both cases. The only result out of range is the TSH of 0.16. As gimel pointed out above, TSH is volatile, even the time of day the blood was drawn can effect it. Though you might want to keep a watchful eye on thyroid labs, I really am having a hard time seeing a thyroid problem in your daughter's labs.
I'd suggest a thyroid ultrasound to rule out any autonymous nodules. However, I think I'd continue to pursue other possible causes of your daughter's symptoms.
This, of course, is just my opinion as a layperson, not a medical professional.
Thanks "Barb135" and "goolarra",
I think both tests have their inconsistencies and leave room to question some of the results. I also agree that one of the biggest problems with those labs is the useless ref. ranges. They are not designed to give you a clean bill of health but to simply state if you are severely out of line. Thyroid as well as other endocrine systems are very sencetive to even a small deviation from the normal set point for each person. Also if I keep going to different lab each time I am suspicious, I am afraid would probably end up in the same position. I have decided to go for another test at the same lab and see what the values are going to be. If TSH is still that low and FT3 and FT4 within the mid range then I can assume we are dealing possibly with a subclinical hyper or symply a nodule that is over producing T4 or T3 and causing the TSH to go low. Another bother is that in my researsh and it is not supported by any documents, but symply by observations the FT4 / FT3 should be around 2.5 or slighly more for a healthy individual. The link I provided in my previous post, which could be viewed in PDF prefferably, could help in establishing that relationship. But then again, I am not a doctor and what I am talking could be completely nonsence.
Thanks for your opinions so far.
I think both tests have their inconsistencies and leave room to question some of the results. I also agree that one of the biggest problems with those labs is the useless ref. ranges. They are not designed to give you a clean bill of health but to simply state if you are severely out of line. Thyroid as well as other endocrine systems are very sencetive to even a small deviation from the normal set point for each person. Also if I keep going to different lab each time I am suspicious, I am afraid would probably end up in the same position. I have decided to go for another test at the same lab and see what the values are going to be. If TSH is still that low and FT3 and FT4 within the mid range then I can assume we are dealing possibly with a subclinical hyper or symply a nodule that is over producing T4 or T3 and causing the TSH to go low. Another bother is that in my researsh and it is not supported by any documents, but symply by observations the FT4 / FT3 should be around 2.5 or slighly more for a healthy individual. The link I provided in my previous post, which could be viewed in PDF prefferably, could help in establishing that relationship. But then again, I am not a doctor and what I am talking could be completely nonsence.
Thanks for your opinions so far.
COMMUNITY LEADER
Are you referring to a ratio of FT4/FT3 being at 2.5?
While I can agree that the reference ranges are not designed to give a completely clean bill of health, I can't agree that they are totally useless, either. What good would a lab result be without something, with which to reference it? Because each lab uses different methods of testing and units of measure, the ranges will change accordingly.
Even if your daughter's TSH still comes back that low in subsequent testing, I'd still not look at it specifically as a thyroid issue. I'd be more inclined to look at other possibilities, first, since her FT's don't indicate that she's hyper.
If your daughter had a nodule that's over producing, chances are pretty great that her FT3 and/or FT4 levels would be higher than they are. Additionally, from my reading, nodules secreting hormones independent of the thyroid, are outside the regulatory influence of the pituitary gland, therefore, would not necessarily cause the TSH to drop that low.
Like you, I'm not a doctor
While I can agree that the reference ranges are not designed to give a completely clean bill of health, I can't agree that they are totally useless, either. What good would a lab result be without something, with which to reference it? Because each lab uses different methods of testing and units of measure, the ranges will change accordingly.
Even if your daughter's TSH still comes back that low in subsequent testing, I'd still not look at it specifically as a thyroid issue. I'd be more inclined to look at other possibilities, first, since her FT's don't indicate that she's hyper.
If your daughter had a nodule that's over producing, chances are pretty great that her FT3 and/or FT4 levels would be higher than they are. Additionally, from my reading, nodules secreting hormones independent of the thyroid, are outside the regulatory influence of the pituitary gland, therefore, would not necessarily cause the TSH to drop that low.
Like you, I'm not a doctor
Thanks "Barb135"
Yes, I agree with you. I need to keep an open mind as to what might be causing the symptom we are concerned about.
Regarding Ref Ranges, I agree that they are needed but in their current way too broad range, they become if not useless then pretty much close to it. OK, I am being a bit extreme, I agree. The point I am trying to make is that if you visit an endo and he specificaly base his opinion on wether the values are within the range or out, then it is pretty likely that you would not be diagnosed with having a problem unless you have suffered for years and or it is way too late maybe, and have very few options left to correct the problem.
I came accross this website that has a video representation by Dr Bryan Walsh, subject is Thyroid Physiology. You can have a look also at what he says about the "Problem with Modern Blood Chemistries".
Yes, I agree with you. I need to keep an open mind as to what might be causing the symptom we are concerned about.
Regarding Ref Ranges, I agree that they are needed but in their current way too broad range, they become if not useless then pretty much close to it. OK, I am being a bit extreme, I agree. The point I am trying to make is that if you visit an endo and he specificaly base his opinion on wether the values are within the range or out, then it is pretty likely that you would not be diagnosed with having a problem unless you have suffered for years and or it is way too late maybe, and have very few options left to correct the problem.
I came accross this website that has a video representation by Dr Bryan Walsh, subject is Thyroid Physiology. You can have a look also at what he says about the "Problem with Modern Blood Chemistries".
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