Choosing Wisely:

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

Search Recommendations

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:
  • Preventive Medicine
  • Endocrinologic
    		•
    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.

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