Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) mass concentration
This test measures the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is a hormone produced by your pituitary gland that helps regulate your thyroid function.
["TSH helps control thyroid hormone production and is key to managing thyroid health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 70096-3
- Short code
- Thyrotropin releasing horm Ur-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Thyrotropin releasing horm Ur-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- urine
- Container
- Sterile urine container
- 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
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 10 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 0
- Lipemia max
- 0
- Icterus max
- 0
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test to check for thyroid problems, such as hypothyroidism (when your thyroid isn’t making enough hormones) or hyperthyroidism (when it’s making too much). It’s also used to monitor treatment for thyroid disorders or to screen for conditions like pituitary tumors or thyroid cancer.
How the Test Works
A small blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure the exact amount of TSH in your blood. This test is highly sensitive and can detect even small changes in hormone levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test if instructed by your provider. Wear comfortable clothing and bring any medications you’re currently taking.
What to Expect During the Test
The test involves a quick, minor procedure where a needle is inserted into your arm to draw blood. You may feel a small pinch, but it usually takes less than a minute. The blood is then sent to a lab for analysis.
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.
TSH levels can give important clues about your thyroid function. Low TSH levels may suggest hyperthyroidism, while high levels often indicate hypothyroidism. Abnormal results can help guide treatment plans, such as adjusting thyroid hormone medication or diagnosing underlying conditions like thyroiditis or pituitary disorders.
Short name
TSH Level
Frequently asked questions
What Does a TSH Test Measure?
How Often Should I Get a TSH Test?
Can Diet or Medications Affect TSH Test Results?
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