Avoid TSH screening in annual well-visits for asymptomatic adults, regardless of age.

Rationale and Comments

TSH screening is a common ambulatory practice; however, no evidence finds routine screening improves patient care. Testing is appropriate when patients are considered at-risk or demonstrate subtle or direct signs of thyroid dysfunction upon physical evaluation.

Sponsoring Organizations

• American Society for Clinical Pathology

Sources

• U.S. Preventive Services Task Force

Disciplines

• Endocrinologic
• Preventive Medicine

References

• Lefevre ML; U.S. Preventive Services Task Force. Screening for thyroid dysfunction: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendation statement. Ann Intern Med. 2015;162(9):641.
  
• Surks MI, Ortiz E, Daniels GH, et al. Subclinical thyroid disease: scientific review and guidelines for diagnosis and management. JAMA. 2004;291(2):228-238.
  
• Donangelo I, Braunstein GD. Update on subclinical hyperthyroidism. Am Fam Physician. 2011;83(8):933-938.