Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) with Serum Concentration Measurement
This test measures the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone in your blood, which helps your thyroid gland produce hormones needed for metabolism and energy levels.
["Your doctor may order this test to check for thyroid problems, including underactive (hypothyroidism) or overactive (hyperthyroidism) thyroid function."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 96460-1
- Short code
- Thyrogl p thyrogl Ab neut SerPl IA-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Thyrogl p thyrogl Ab neut SerPl IA-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Doctors often use TSH testing as a first step to diagnose thyroid disorders. It’s especially useful when symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or mood swings are present. TSH levels can also help monitor thyroid treatment progress or detect thyroid issues in people with no obvious symptoms.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your blood is drawn early in the morning. Avoid smoking or taking certain medications (like thyroid hormone) for 24 hours before testing, as they can affect results.
What the Results Mean
TSH results are interpreted based on your overall health, symptoms, and other lab tests. High TSH levels often indicate an underactive thyroid, while low levels may suggest an overactive thyroid. Your doctor will discuss these findings with you.
Common Causes of Abnormal Results
TSH levels can be affected by thyroid diseases (e.g., Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease), pituitary disorders, pregnancy, or certain medications. Illness, stress, or thyroid surgery can also influence results.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
TSH (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
What might cause my TSH test to be abnormal?
How often should I get a TSH test?
Can lifestyle changes affect TSH levels?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy