Schilddrüsenstimulierende

Schilddrüsenstimulierendes Hormon, often abbreviated as TSH, is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary function is to regulate the production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. TSH plays a crucial role in maintaining the body's metabolism.

When TSH levels are low, it indicates that the thyroid gland is producing too much thyroid hormone (hyperthyroidism). Conversely, high TSH levels suggest that the thyroid gland is not producing enough thyroid hormone (hypothyroidism). The pituitary gland monitors the levels of thyroid hormones in the bloodstream and adjusts TSH production accordingly, creating a feedback loop to maintain hormonal balance.

TSH is measured through a blood test and is a common diagnostic tool for thyroid disorders. Abnormal TSH levels can be indicative of various conditions affecting the pituitary gland or the thyroid gland itself. For instance, a TSH test is often one of the first steps in diagnosing autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease. The level of TSH is a sensitive indicator of thyroid function, making it an essential component of thyroid health assessment.