Thyroid ultrasound

[dredrr]

i am 4 months post-partum and just diagnosed with hypothyroidism. TSH level= 50
I had an ultrasound today and the "impression" reads:

1. non-homegenous echo pattern to the thyroid
2. no discrete masses are seen
3. bilaterally there is increased blood flow

What does this mean???
Thank you

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

you have postpartum thyroiditis -- would strongly consider treating with levothyroxine.  The ultrasound is consistent with thyroiditis.  In some cases this is transient but we usually treat for at least 6 months or until done w/ reproduction.

[Super_sally888]

Hi,

i think this just means that your thyroid enlarged through trying to increase thyroid hormone production due to the very high level of TSH.  No masses seen is good news.

The TSH means that your thyroid is not able to produce the required hormones.  You will require treatment.  I assume your doctor is already starting  you on replacement thyroid hormone, usually levothyroxine.

You should start feeling a lot better soon with the replacement hormone (no, being so tired is not just from having the baby).

They should monitor you closely for a few months, usually every 5 - 6 weeks, til your levels get to normal range (TSH of 1 - 2).  After that they would probably monitor quarterly at first (things can change with post-partum thyroid), then every 6 months if things are stable.

Plenty of info available  here and helpful people.  Welcome.