Türoidstimuleeriv

Türoidstimuleeriv, also known as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) or thyrotropin, is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Its primary function is to regulate the growth and function of the thyroid gland. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). These thyroid hormones are crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and development in the body.

The production of TSH is controlled by the hypothalamus, which releases thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH). TRH stimulates the pituitary gland to release TSH, which in turn acts on the thyroid gland. This forms a negative feedback loop: when thyroid hormone levels in the blood are high, they inhibit the release of both TRH and TSH, thus reducing thyroid hormone production. Conversely, when thyroid hormone levels are low, TRH and TSH production increase.

Measuring TSH levels in the blood is a common diagnostic tool for assessing thyroid function. Elevated TSH levels typically indicate hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland is underactive and not producing enough thyroid hormones. Low TSH levels, on the other hand, usually suggest hyperthyroidism, where the thyroid gland is overactive and producing too much thyroid hormone. TSH testing is often the first step in diagnosing various thyroid disorders.