thyroid function test results in hyperthyroidism and in conditions simulating hyperthyroidism

Last edited 07/2018 and last reviewed 08/2021

thyroid function test results in hyperthyroidism and in conditions simulating hyperthyroidism


condition

TSH

total T4

free T4

total T3

overt hyperthyroidism

suppressed

elevated

elevated

elevated

subclinical hyperthyroidism

suppressed or low

normal

normal

normal

TSH-secreting pituitary adenoma

normal or elevated

elevated

elevated

elevated

oestrogen excess

normal

elevated

normal

elevated

nonthyroidal illness syndrome

low

normal or mildly decreased

normal

low (and reverse T3 is elevated)

glucocorticoid and/or dopamine therapy

low

normal

normal

normal

Reference: