Does A Slightly Elevated TSH Level Indicate Hypothyroidism?

Posted on Wed, 14 Jun 2017

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 14 Jun 2017 Answered on

Wed, 5 Jul 2017 Last reviewed on

Question : I was treated with medication for Graves disease about 13 years ago and have been in remission since. I have had blood tests done every 6 months as I am diabetic. My latest test, TSH, done yesterday, is 4.323 and was 1.876 6 months ago. So is it possible that I've gone Hypo?

Answered by Dr. Mirjeta Guni (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes, underactive thyroid is suggested;

Detailed Answer:
Hello and thank you for asking!
Yes, the slightly elevated TSH is suggestive for hypothyroidism.
In rare cases Graves disease may switch to Hashimoto.I would recommend to check the antibodies:
- Anti-TPO
-Anti-TPO thyroglobulin
Check also Ft4 and Ft3.
Will be a pleasure to help you further.
Kind regards,
Dr.Mirjeta

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Nagamani Ng