Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) with Serum Immunoassay
This test measures the amount of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood, which helps regulate your thyroid function.
["TSH helps your thyroid make hormones that control metabolism and energy levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 108919-2
- Short code
- Timothy IgG Msmt Ser
- Synonyms
- Timothy IgG Msmt Ser
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82784
- 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
What Is TSH Used For?
TSH is primarily used to check if your thyroid is working properly. It can help diagnose conditions like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or unexplained issues with metabolism.
How Is the Test Performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure TSH levels.
Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?
Your doctor may recommend a TSH test if you have symptoms related to thyroid problems, such as unexplained weight changes, fatigue, depression, or sensitivity to heat/cold. It may also be used during pregnancy, before surgery, or to monitor thyroid treatments.
What Do TSH Results Mean?
Results are interpreted based on your overall health and symptoms. Low TSH levels may suggest hyperthyroidism, while high TSH levels may indicate hypothyroidism. Your doctor will discuss the results with you in the context of your medical history.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: TSH is a critical marker for thyroid function. Abnormal levels can signal underlying thyroid disorders that require medical attention, such as thyroiditis, pituitary issues, or thyroid cancer. Regular monitoring with TSH can help manage and treat thyroid conditions effectively.
Short name
TSH
Frequently asked questions
What Are Common Symptoms That Might Lead to a TSH Test?
How Often Should I Get a TSH Test?
Can TSH Test Results Change Over Time?
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