NR565 final exam
What is hyperthyroidism?
A condition characterized by the overproduction f thyroid hormone,
leading to accelerated metabolic processes
What laboratory test is primarily used to diagnose hyperthyroidism?
TSH, low levels indicate high thyroid hormone levels
What additional lab test confirms hyperthyroidism?
free thyroxine (T4), elevated levels of T4
Which lab test may be elevated in cases of T4 toxicosis?
total T3- elevated levels may indicate hyperthyroidism
What antibodies are tested to help determine the cause of
hyperthyroidism?
thyroid antibodies (ex. TSI for grave's disease)
What laboratory test is primarily used to diagnose hypothyroidism?
TSH- elevated levels indicate low thyroid hormone levels
What additional lab test confirms hypothyroidism?
free thyroxine (T4)- low levels confirm hypothyroidism
Which antibodies are tested to help diagnose Hashimoto's thyroiditis?
thyroid antibodies (ex. anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies)
What are common causes of hyperthyroidism?
Grave's disease, other conditions affecting the thyroid or stimulating
glands
,What are common symptoms of hyperthryroidism?
unintended weight loss, rapid heartbeat, sweating, nervousness,
irritability
What are the treatment options for hyperthyroidism?
antithyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or thyroid surgery
What is methimazole used for?
first-line antithyroid drug used to treat hyperthyroidism by inhibiting
thyroid hormone synthesis
What are the unique features of methimazole?
safer and more convenient than PTU, preferred except in the first
trimester of pregnancy
How does methimazole work?
blocks the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, reducing synthesis of T3 and T4
hormones
What are potential side effects of methimazole?
agranulocytosis and hypothyroidism (from supra-therapeutic doses)
What is PTU used for?
second-line antithyroid drug primarily used in the first trimester of
pregnancy and for thyroid storm
How does PTU work?
it inhibits thyroid hormone synthesis and peripheral conversion of T4 to
T3
What is hypothyroidism?
,a condition where the thyroid gland is under active, leading to
insufficient production of thyroid hormones
What are common symptoms of hypothyroidism?
fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, dry skin, and depression
What is levothyroxine used for?
it is a synthetic thyroid hormone replacement used to manage
hypothyroidism
How does levothyroxine work?
it supplements thyroid hormone levels, converting T4 to T3, normalizing
metabolic processes
What are potential side effects of levothyroxine?
thyrotoxicosis, osteoporosis, and atrial fibrillation with chronic overdose
What is the preferred antithyroid medication during the first trimester
of pregnancy?
PTU is preferred due to its lower risk of crossing the placenta
How does levothyroxine affect pregnancy?
it is safe and essential, dosage may need to be increased to meet higher
demands during pregnancy
How is levothyroxine dosed in pediatric patients?
dosage is adjusted for age and weight, starting higher for infants with
congenital hypothyroidism
How should levothyroxine be administered?
taken orally on an empty stomach, ideally 30-60 minutes before eating,
to enhance absorption
, IV administration may be used in acute settings (myxedema coma)
important to space out other medications that decrease absorption by
4 hours
What considerations should be taken when prescribing levothyroxine
to older adults?
start with a lower dose, monitor for cardiovascular effects, and assess
for polypharmacy and drug interactions
What is the timeframe for re-checking labs after starting
levothyroxine?
TSH levels should be monitored 6-8 weeks after starting treatment to
determine if a euthyroid state has been achieved
What is the result of not treating hypothyroidism during pregnancy?
complications such as preterm birth , low birth weight, developmental
delays in the child and increased risk of maternal health issues,
including preeclampsia and anemia
What are common symptoms of thyroid storm?
high fever, rapid heart rate, increase BP, sweating, nervousness,
agitation, tremors, confusion, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fatigue,
weakness
Medication to treat symptoms of hyperthyroidism (notice this is
treatingsymptoms and not the hyperthyroidism itself)?
beta-blockers, such as propranolol, are commonly used to treat
symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including rapid heartbeat, anxiety, and
tremors