The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy production, growth, and development through hormones T3 and T4.
TSH, secreted by the pituitary gland, controls thyroid hormone production.
Clinical uses include:
Diagnosing hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Detecting hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Monitoring thyroid replacement therapy.
Evaluating goiter, thyroid nodules, and autoimmune thyroid disease.
Often performed as a first‑line screening test for thyroid dysfunction.