Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) with Salivary Specimen Analysis
This test measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your saliva, which helps assess thyroid function.
["Salivary TSH can provide insights into thyroid health, especially in conditions where traditional blood tests may not be definitive."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26998-5
- Short code
- TSH Sal-aCnc
- Synonyms
- TSH Sal-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.4
- Ref high
- 4
- Critical range
- 0.1 N/A – 20 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84443
- SNOMED
- 301343003
- 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 Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend a salivary TSH test if you have symptoms of thyroid issues, such as fatigue, weight changes, or unexplained mood swings. It may also be used in certain diagnostic scenarios where blood-based TSH levels are less reliable, such as in patients with certain genetic conditions or those who have had previous thyroid surgeries.
How the Test Works
Saliva is collected, typically in the morning, and analyzed for TSH levels using a sensitive immunoassay method. Salivary TSH reflects the hormone’s presence in your saliva, which can correlate with blood levels but may offer additional diagnostic nuances.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may collect saliva at home or during a clinic visit, often by spitting into a container. Avoid eating or drinking for about 30 minutes before collection to ensure accurate results.
What to Expect During the Test
The test is quick and painless. If done at home, simply follow the provided instructions to collect your saliva sample. If done in a lab, a healthcare professional will guide you through the process.
Reference range
Adult: 0.4-4.0 mIU/LN/A
Take your thyroid medication after the blood draw if applicable. No fasting required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Salivary TSH
Frequently asked questions
How is salivary TSH different from blood TSH?
Can I take any medications before a salivary TSH test?
Is salivary TSH testing more accurate than blood TSH testing?
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