TSH Blood Test - Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Test in Rhode Island

What this test is

Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that tells your thyroid gland how much thyroid hormone to make. This test measures the amount of TSH in your blood.

What it measures

• TSH (Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone) — reflects the pituitary gland's signal to the thyroid

What the test involves

A healthcare professional will collect a blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm, using a needle. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Why it is often ordered

Clinicians often order this test to evaluate symptoms of an overactive or underactive thyroid gland. It is also used to monitor thyroid conditions and treatments.

Preparation

Follow any specific instructions provided by the laboratory regarding food or drink consumption before your test. Some medications may affect results, so inform your doctor about all you are taking.

How results are reported

Your TSH test results will indicate the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone in your blood. Reference ranges, which help interpret these results, vary between laboratories.

Before you go

• Fasting requirements
• Medication interference
• Specimen collection time