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Moran C, Schoenmakers N, Halsall D, Oddy S, Lyons G, van den Berg S, Gurnell M, Chatterjee K. Approach to the Patient With Raised Thyroid Hormones and Nonsuppressed TSH. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 109:1094-1108. [PMID: 37988295 PMCID: PMC10940260 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad681] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/23/2023]
Abstract
Measurement of free thyroid hormones (THs) and thyrotropin (TSH) using automated immunoassays is central to the diagnosis of thyroid dysfunction. Using illustrative cases, we describe a diagnostic approach to discordant thyroid function tests, focusing on entities causing elevated free thyroxine and/or free triiodothyronine measurements with nonsuppressed TSH levels. Different types of analytical interference (eg, abnormal thyroid hormone binding proteins, antibodies to iodothyronines or TSH, heterophile antibodies, biotin) or disorders (eg, resistance to thyroid hormone β or α, monocarboxylate transporter 8 or selenoprotein deficiency, TSH-secreting pituitary tumor) that can cause this biochemical pattern will be considered. We show that a structured approach, combining clinical assessment with additional laboratory investigations to exclude assay artifact, followed by genetic testing or specialized imaging, can establish a correct diagnosis, potentially preventing unnecessary investigation or inappropriate therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carla Moran
- Endocrine Section, Beacon Hospital, Dublin, D18 AK68, Ireland
- Endocrine Department, St. Vincent's University Hospital, Dublin, D04 T6F4, Ireland
- School of Medicine, University College Dublin, Dublin, D04 V1W8, Ireland
| | - Nadia Schoenmakers
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - David Halsall
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Susan Oddy
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Greta Lyons
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Sjoerd van den Berg
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus Medical Center, 3015 GE Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark Gurnell
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
| | - Krishna Chatterjee
- Wellcome Trust-MRC Institute of Metabolic Science, University of Cambridge, Cambridge CB2 0QQ, UK
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2
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Li Y, Chi Y, Chai X, Liu H, Li N, Lian X. Familial dysalbuminemic hyperthyroxinemia combined with Graves' disease: a rare case report. BMC Endocr Disord 2023; 23:226. [PMID: 37853391 PMCID: PMC10583390 DOI: 10.1186/s12902-023-01481-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Accepted: 10/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Familial dysalbuminemic hyperthyroxinemia (FDH) is an autosomal dominant disease characterised by an abnormally increased affinity of albumin for serum thyroxine. Assay interference and differential diagnosis remain challenging for FDH. The condition is more complicated when FDH is combined with primary thyroid diseases. Co-occurrence of FDH and Graves' disease is rare. CASE PRESENTATION We report the case of a 28-year-old woman with complex FDH and coexisting Graves' disease. Initially, the existence of FDH was not recognised. Graves' disease was relieved after treatment with antithyroid drugs and two administrations of radioactive iodine therapy. She subsequently developed primary hypothyroidism and was prescribed levothyroxine replacement. However, thyroid function failed to normalise despite frequent levothyroxine dose adjustments. Ultimately, syndromes involving the inappropriate secretion of thyroid-stimulating hormone (IST) were considered, and FDH was successfully differentiated from other causes of IST. CONCLUSIONS A greater focus on FDH when investigating the causes of IST is critical to correctly evaluate thyroid function status and avoid inappropriate treatment, especially in complicated cases with concurrent FDH and primary thyroid diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanmeng Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yue Chi
- Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Xiaofeng Chai
- Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - He Liu
- Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Naishi Li
- Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- Department of Medical Records, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- WHO Family of International Classifications Collaborating Center of China, Beijing, China.
| | - Xiaolan Lian
- Department of Endocrinology, Key Laboratory of Endocrinology of National Health Commission, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
- State Key Laboratory of Complex Severe and Rare Diseases, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China.
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Van Uytfanghe K, Ehrenkranz J, Halsall D, Hoff K, Loh TP, Spencer CA, Köhrle J. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone and Thyroid Hormones (Triiodothyronine and Thyroxine): An American Thyroid Association-Commissioned Review of Current Clinical and Laboratory Status. Thyroid 2023; 33:1013-1028. [PMID: 37655789 PMCID: PMC10517335 DOI: 10.1089/thy.2023.0169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
Background: Despite being the most performed laboratory endocrine investigation, the optimum use of thyroid tests (thyrotropin [TSH] and thyroid hormone [TH] measurement) is open to question and the interpretation of the results from these tests can be ambiguous. The American Thyroid Association (ATA) with its expertise support the endeavor of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) to improve and maintain standardization and harmonization of thyroid testing. ATA mandated an international interdisciplinary working group panel to survey the status of thyroid testing by reviewing the recent literature to revise or update the criteria as needed in mutual agreement and to inform clinical care. Summary: This review represents the conclusions on the clinical use of current routine TSH and TH (thyroxine [T4] and triiodothyronine [T3]) assays, taking into account geographic differences in disease prevalence and clinical and laboratory practice among writing members. The interaction between physiological, pathophysiological, and pharmacological factors and thyroid assays can affect their measurements and confound result interpretation. These factors need to be considered in the clinical context of the patient for appropriate test ordering and result interpretation. Despite significant advances in laboratory methods over the past 50 years, routine thyroid assays remain susceptible to idiosyncratic analytical interference that may produce spurious results. Improved standardization needs to be demonstrated through ongoing international efforts before results from different assays can be considered equivalent. Emerging technology (e.g., mass spectrometry) shows promise for improved analytical performance, but more evidence of its clinical utility and improved throughput is required before it can be considered for routine use. Close clinical-laboratory collaboration is encouraged to overcome and avoid the pitfalls in thyroid testing as well as resolve clinically discrepant results. The evidence base supporting the conclusions of this review is summarized in four detailed online technical supplements. Conclusions: Over the past five decades, testing for TSH, T4, and T3 has evolved from manual radioisotopic immunoassays to nonisotopic multiplexed immunometric assays using highly automated equipment. Despite these technical advances, physicians and laboratorians performing these analyses must understand limitations of these methods to properly order tests and interpret results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katleen Van Uytfanghe
- Ref4U—Laboratory of Toxicology, Department of Bioanalysis, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Joel Ehrenkranz
- Department of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, California Institute of Technology, Pasadena, California, USA
| | - David Halsall
- Cambridge University Hospitals Trust, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Kelly Hoff
- American Thyroid Association, Headquarters, Alexandria, Virginia, USA
| | - Tze Ping Loh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Carole A. Spencer
- Department of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Josef Köhrle
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health, Institut für Experimentelle Endokrinologie, Berlin, Germany
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Brown A, Hofman P, Li B, Heron C, Heather N. A Positive Newborn Screen for Congenital Hypothyroidism in a Clinically Euthyroid Neonate-Avoiding Unnecessary Treatment. Int J Neonatal Screen 2023; 9:ijns9020016. [PMID: 37092510 PMCID: PMC10123723 DOI: 10.3390/ijns9020016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 03/21/2023] [Indexed: 04/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Newborn screening for congenital hypothyroidism (CH) has dramatically improved the neurocognitive outcomes for newborns with a confirmed positive screening test result. However, screening yields a small number of false positive and false negative results. This report describes the first known case of familial dysalbuminaemic hyperthyroxinaemia presenting with a positive newborn thyroid stimulating hormone screen. This condition is characterized by artefactually elevated free tetraiodothyronine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) levels due to increased albumin binding and subsequent dissociation during laboratory assays but normal true free thyroid hormone and thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels in a clinically euthyroid subject. This highlights the need to take care when attributing clinical significance to discordant results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashleigh Brown
- Starship Child Health, Te Whatu Ora Te Toka Tumai Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Paul Hofman
- Starship Child Health, Te Whatu Ora Te Toka Tumai Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
| | - Bobby Li
- Canterbury Health Laboratories, Te Whatu Ora Waitaha Canterbury, Christchurch 8011, New Zealand
| | - Campbell Heron
- LabPlus, Te Whatu Ora Te Toka Tumai Auckland, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
| | - Natasha Heather
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland 1023, New Zealand
- LabPlus, Te Whatu Ora Te Toka Tumai Auckland, Auckland 1148, New Zealand
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5
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Zhao L, Zhou Y, Huang F, He X, Mei G, Wang S, Zhao Y. Clinical characteristics of familial dysalbuminemic hyperthyroxinemia in Chinese patients and comparison of free thyroxine in three immunoassay methods. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1102777. [PMID: 36864842 PMCID: PMC9971560 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1102777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2022] [Accepted: 01/27/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Familial dysalbuminemic hyperthyroxinemia (FDH) has not been thoroughly studied in the Chinese population to date. The clinical characteristics of FDH in Chinese patients were summarized, and the susceptibility of common free thyroxine (FT4) immunoassay methods was evaluated. METHODS The study included 16 affected patients from eight families with FDH admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University. The published FDH patients of Chinese ethnicity were summarized. Clinical characteristics, genetic information, and thyroid function tests were analyzed. The ratio of FT4 to the upper limit of normal (FT4/ULN) in three test platforms was also compared in patients with R218H ALB mutation from our center. RESULTS The R218H ALB mutation was identified in seven families and the R218S in one family. The mean age of diagnosis was 38.4 ± 19.5 years. Half of the probands (4/8) were misdiagnosed as hyperthyroidism previously. The ratios of serum iodothyronine concentration to ULN in FDH patients with R218S were 8.05-9.74 for TT4, 0.68-1.28 for TT3, and 1.20-1.39 for rT3, respectively. The ratios in patients with R218H were 1.44 ± 0.15, 0.65 ± 0.14, and 0.77 ± 0.18, respectively. The FT4/ULN ratio detected using the Abbott I4000 SR platform was significantly lower than Roche Cobas e801 and Beckman UniCel Dxl 800 Access platforms (P < 0.05) in patients with R218H. In addition, nine Chinese families with FDH were retrieved from the literature, of which eight carried the R218H ALB mutation and one the R218S. The TT4/ULN of approximately 90% of patients (19/21) with R218H was 1.53 ± 0.31; the TT3/ULN of 52.4% of patients (11/21) was 1.49 ± 0.91. In the family with R218S, 45.5% of patients (5/11) underwent TT4 dilution test and the TT4/ULN was 11.70 ± 1.33 and 90.9% (10/11) received TT3 testing and the TT3/ULN was 0.39 ± 0.11. CONCLUSIONS Two ALB mutations, R218S and R218H, were found in eight Chinese families with FDH in this study, and the latter may be a high-frequency mutation in this population. The serum iodothyronine concentration varies with different mutation forms. The rank order of deviation in measured versus reference FT4 values by different immunoassays (lowest to highest) was Abbott < Roche < Beckman in the FDH patients with R218H.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linlin Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Yingying Zhou
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Fengjiao Huang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Xiaoyang He
- Department of Endocrinology, Boai County People’s Hospital, Jiaozuo, Henan, China
| | - Guili Mei
- Department of Endocrinology, Boai County People’s Hospital, Jiaozuo, Henan, China
| | - Shoujun Wang
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Shoujun Wang, ; Yanyan Zhao,
| | - Yanyan Zhao
- Department of Endocrinology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- *Correspondence: Shoujun Wang, ; Yanyan Zhao,
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6
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Vidouris M, Worth C, Patel L, Date A, Jasser A, Hird B, Tetlow L, Banerjee I. Notes for the general paediatrician: managing thyrotoxicosis in children and young people. BMJ Paediatr Open 2022; 6:10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001582. [PMID: 36645751 PMCID: PMC9685199 DOI: 10.1136/bmjpo-2022-001582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Thyrotoxicosis due to hyperthyroidism is a serious disorder in childhood often presenting to general paediatricians with a range of clinical manifestations. The commonest cause is Graves' disease, an autoimmune disorder resulting from thyrotropin receptor stimulation by autoantibodies. Early recognition and accurate interpretation of investigations are essential to achieve and maintain a euthyroid state. This will not only optimise growth, development and transition from childhood to young adult life but also avoid the potentially severe and life-threatening complications of acute thyrotoxicosis. In this review, we have focussed on the general paediatrician's perspective of the presentation and management of thyrotoxicosis and the need to network with specialist paediatric endocrine centres to optimise patient care. We have discussed nuances of therapy, side effects and long-term outcomes, while recognising that limited remission rates in this age group often necessitate more definitive management. While carbimazole is usually used as first-line medical therapy, we have provided useful information to guide paediatricians in the discussion of individualised safe and effective treatment plans for both short-term and long-term management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marianna Vidouris
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Christopher Worth
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.,Department of Computer Science, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Leena Patel
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.,North West Paediatric Endocrine Network (NOWPEN), Manchester, UK
| | - Anjali Date
- North West Paediatric Endocrine Network (NOWPEN), Manchester, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, Tameside Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Ashton-under-Lyne, UK
| | - Anas Jasser
- North West Paediatric Endocrine Network (NOWPEN), Manchester, UK.,Department of Paediatrics, East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust, Blackburn, UK
| | - Beverly Hird
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Lesley Tetlow
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Indraneel Banerjee
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Manchester Children's Hospital. Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK.,University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
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7
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Alegre E, Casal H, Galofré JC, González Á. Questionable High Free T4 Concentrations: When Confirming against an Alternative Method Is Not Enough. Clin Chem 2022; 68:1128-1132. [PMID: 36048192 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvac114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/14/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Estibaliz Alegre
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Henar Casal
- Department of Endocrinology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Juan C Galofré
- IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain.,Department of Endocrinology, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain
| | - Álvaro González
- Biochemistry Laboratory, Clínica Universidad de Navarra, Pamplona, Spain.,IdiSNA, Navarra Institute for Health Research, Pamplona, Spain
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D’Aurizio F, Biasotto A, Cipri C, Grimaldi F, Zucco J, Marzinotto S, Curcio F, Benvenga S. Thyroid function tests, incongruent internally and with thyroid status, both in a pregnant woman and in her newborn daughter. Eur Thyroid J 2022; 11:e210088. [PMID: 35521782 PMCID: PMC9175579 DOI: 10.1530/etj-21-0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Thyroid function tests (TFT) are extensively used in daily clinical practice. Here, we described a case of incongruent TFT both in a pregnant woman and in her newborn. Case presentation A 32-year-old woman, diagnosed with autoimmune thyroiditis during her first pregnancy, was monitored during her second gestation. At week 5 + 2 days, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and free thyroxine (FT4) values (Dimension VISTA 1500, Siemens Healthineers) were within normal limits. At week 19 + 5 days, TSH remained normal while FT4 increased approximately by three-fold. FT4 inconsistency was with both TSH and the clinical status since she continued to be clinically euthyroid. On the same serum sample, thyroid autoantibodies were negative. At week 25 + 4 days, the patient complained of palpitations and dyspnea, with tachycardia. Even though TSH was normal, high levels of both FT4 and free triiodothyronine (FT3) were interpreted as evidence of thyroid overactivity and methimazole was started. TFT of the pregnant woman continued to be monitored throughout gestation. Postpartum FT4 and FT3 gradually returned to normal. TFT, performed on the daughter's serum, 3 days after birth, showed the same inconsistency as her mother but without clinical signs of congenital hyperthyroidism. Based on the clinical and laboratory setting, the presence of circulating autoantibodies against T3 and T4 (THAb) was suspected and demonstrated by radioimmunoprecipitation. Conclusion Analytical interferences should be supposed when TFT do not fit with the clinical picture and despite their infrequency, THAb must also be considered. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing the passage of THAb to the newborn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Federica D’Aurizio
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pathology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Cipri
- Endocrinology, Metabolism and Clinical Nutrition Unit, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Franco Grimaldi
- Endocrinology, Metabolism and Clinical Nutrition Unit, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Jessica Zucco
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pathology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Stefania Marzinotto
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pathology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Francesco Curcio
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Clinical Pathology, University Hospital of Udine, Udine, Italy
- Department of Medicine, University of Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Endocrinology Section, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
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9
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Külz M, Fellner S, Rocktäschel J, Ceglarek U, Willenberg A, Kratzsch J. Dubiously increased FT4 and FT3 levels in clinically euthyroid patients: clinical finding or analytical pitfall? Clin Chem Lab Med 2022; 60:877-885. [PMID: 35213944 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2021-1211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We systematically investigated normally or subclinically increased thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) values associated with unexpectedly increased thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) in findings of patients without any thyroid disease. Moreover, we looked for alternatives to overcome such states with an improved diagnostic procedure and to investigate the pathogenetic background of the respective patients. METHODS Samples with TSH concentrations within the range of 0.4-10 mU/L combined with increased concentrations of FT4 (n=120; Cobas, Roche) were collected over a period of around six years. Cobas FT4 results were compared with measurements from Liaison (DiaSorin) and Architect (Abbott) FT4 assays. For further validation all samples were measured for total thyroxine (TT4) (Cobas, Roche). Finally, FT3 and TT3 as complementary parameters were measured in samples with leftover material. To overcome potential analytical disturbances from stimulating heterophilic antibodies, we used heterophilic blocking tubes (HBTs). RESULTS From the 120 samples with increased FT4 concentrations by Cobas, 51/120 were also increased by Liaison, and 26/120 by Architect. However, the measurement of TT4 indicated only n=10/120 increased values. The number of increased FT3 (n=71) measurements was higher in Architect>Cobas>Liaison (28>27>9). TT3 levels of 70/71 samples were within the reference interval. HBTs were inappropriate to reduce unspecific immunoreactivity in our samples. No clear pathogenetic background could be elucidated in the anamnesis of individual patients. CONCLUSIONS To overcome dubious constellations of TSH, FT4, and FT3, it is helpful to measure TT4 and TT3 for control or to use an immunoassay with an alternative assay design for the respective parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Külz
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Stephan Fellner
- pes Gesellschaft für medizinische Diagnosesysteme mbH, Markkleeberg, Germany
| | - Jörg Rocktäschel
- pes Gesellschaft für medizinische Diagnosesysteme mbH, Markkleeberg, Germany
| | - Uta Ceglarek
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Anja Willenberg
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Jürgen Kratzsch
- Institute for Laboratory Medicine, Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, (ILM) Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
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10
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Ghazal K, Brabant S, Prie D, Piketty ML. Hormone Immunoassay Interference: A 2021 Update. Ann Lab Med 2022; 42:3-23. [PMID: 34374345 PMCID: PMC8368230 DOI: 10.3343/alm.2022.42.1.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2021] [Revised: 03/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Immunoassays are powerful qualitative and quantitative analytical techniques. Since the first description of an immunoassay method in 1959, advances have been made in assay designs and analytical characteristics, opening the door for their widespread implementation in clinical laboratories. Clinical endocrinology is closely linked to laboratory medicine because hormone quantification is important for the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis of endocrine disorders. Several interferences in immunoassays have been identified through the years; although some are no longer encountered in daily practice, cross-reaction, heterophile antibodies, biotin, and anti-analyte antibodies still cause problems. Newer interferences are also emerging with the development of new therapies. The interfering substance may be exogenous (e.g., a drug or substance absorbed by the patient) or endogenous (e.g., antibodies produced by the patient), and the bias caused by interference can be positive or negative. The consequences of interference can be deleterious when clinicians consider erroneous results to establish a diagnosis, leading to unnecessary explorations or inappropriate treatments. Clinical laboratories and manufacturers continue to investigate methods for the detection, elimination, and prevention of interferences. However, no system is completely devoid of such incidents. In this review, we focus on the analytical interferences encountered in daily practice and possible solutions for their detection or elimination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khaldoun Ghazal
- Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, Department of Functional Explorations, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital, Paris-Centre University, Paris Cedex, France
| | - Severine Brabant
- Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, Department of Functional Explorations, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital, Paris-Centre University, Paris Cedex, France
| | - Dominique Prie
- Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, Department of Functional Explorations, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital, Paris-Centre University, Paris Cedex, France
| | - Marie-Liesse Piketty
- Assistance Publique Hopitaux de Paris, Department of Functional Explorations, Necker Enfants Malades Hospital, Paris-Centre University, Paris Cedex, France
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Kumar S, Phang CA, Ni H, Diamond T. A patient with an ectopic sphenoid bone TSH secretory adenoma: Case report and review of the literature. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:961256. [PMID: 36004344 PMCID: PMC9393506 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.961256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Ectopic thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)oma located outside the sella turcica is exceedingly rare and can be associated with significant diagnostic delay. The clinical presentation depends on the anatomical location and size of the ectopic tumor and the degree of thyrotoxicosis. A 71-year-old woman presented with goiter and thyrotoxicosis. Initial investigations revealed elevated free thyroxine (fT4) and tri-iodothyronine (fT3) with inappropriately high-normal TSH. Assay interference was unlikely, pituitary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan was reported as "normal," and germline sequencing was negative for thyroid hormone receptor ß pathogenic variants. One year later, total thyroidectomy for enlarging symptomatic goiter and suspicious nodule revealed multifocal microscopic papillary thyroid carcinoma. Six years later, she presented to an ear, nose, and throat surgeon with nasal congestion, and a sphenoid bone mass was discovered on nasoendoscopy and imaging. Ectopic TSHoma was confirmed on surgical resection, and a review of the initial pituitary MRI scan revealed the mass which had initially been missed. This is the first reported case of an ectopic TSHoma located in the sphenoid bone. Ectopic TSHoma should be considered in patients with inappropriate TSH secretion when more common differentials are excluded including thyroid hormone resistance or pituitary TSHoma.
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Ting MJM, Zhang R, Lim EM, Ward BK, Wilson SG, Walsh JP. Familial Dysalbuminemic Hyperthyroxinemia as a Cause for Discordant Thyroid Function Tests. J Endocr Soc 2021; 5:bvab012. [PMID: 33728390 PMCID: PMC7940171 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Discordant thyroid function tests are routinely encountered in clinical practice. Differential diagnoses include acute thyroxine (T4) ingestion, laboratory interference from heterophilic antibodies, thyroid hormone resistance, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH)-secreting pituitary adenomas, and T4 protein binding abnormalities. The impact of abnormal binding proteins may be less recognized since widespread use of free T4 (FT4) assays compared to older total T4 assays. Case report A 69-year-old female was referred for assessment of discordant thyroid function tests. Biochemistry since July 2015 showed persistently elevated FT4 levels by immunoassay ranging between 25 to 34 pmol/L with normal or slightly decreased TSH ranging between 0.05 to 2.74 mU/L. The patient was clinically euthyroid on 100 mcg daily of levothyroxine for Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. FT4 measured using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was 19.5 pmol/L. Exome sequencing (confirmed by Sanger sequencing) detected a guanine to adenine substitution at residue 725 of the ALB gene previously associated with dysalbuminemic hyperthyroxinemia. The patient’s daughter had similar thyroid function tests and the same genetic variant. FT4 results from 3 different automated immunoassays showed the Roche Cobas and Siemens Centaur platforms to be most affected by the variant, and Abbott Architect had the best agreement with LC-MS/MS. Conclusion Familial dysalbuminemic hyperthyroxinemia is a potential cause of discordant thyroid function tests. Clinicians suspecting protein-binding abnormalities may further investigate using reference methods such as LC-MS/MS and equilibrium dialysis if available. The increasing accessibility of exome sequencing offers a cost-effective method of diagnosing genetic variants that cause discordant thyroid function tests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew J M Ting
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Rui Zhang
- PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Ee Mun Lim
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia.,PathWest Laboratory Medicine, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Bryan K Ward
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia.,Harry Perkins Institute of Medical Research, Centre for Medical Research, QEII Medical Centre, University of Western Australia, Nedlands, Australia
| | - Scott G Wilson
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia.,School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia.,Department of Twin Research and Genetic Epidemiology, King's College London, London, UK
| | - John P Walsh
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital, Nedlands, Australia.,Medical School, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
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Lee JC, Song BS, Kang YM, Kim YR, Kang YE, Lee JH, Shong M, Yi HS. Effect of Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone Suppression on Muscle Function After Total Thyroidectomy in Patients With Thyroid Cancer. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:769074. [PMID: 34858341 PMCID: PMC8631429 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.769074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
CONTEXT Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) suppression is recommended to reduce tumor recurrence following surgery for differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). However, prolonged subclinical hyperthyroidism caused by levothyroxine treatment has deleterious effects on various organs. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the relationships of TSH concentration with muscle mass, muscle strength, and physical performance related to sarcopenia in patients with DTC undergoing TSH suppression following surgery. METHODS We studied 134 patients of >60 years who were undergoing TSH suppression therapy following surgery for DTC. We evaluated muscle mass and muscle function-related parameters and diagnosed sarcopenia using the threshold for Asian people. RESULTS The participants were 68.3 ± 7.2 years old and 36/134 (26.9%) were diagnosed with sarcopenia. They were allocated to high-TSH and low-TSH groups using a threshold concentration of 0.40 μU/mL, and grip strength was significantly lower in the low-TSH group. The data were further analyzed according to age and sex, and in the low-TSH group, male participants and those of <70 years were found to have significantly lower grip strength. CONCLUSIONS Low-TSH concentrations is associated with low grip strength, and this is most pronounced in individuals of <70 years of age. Therefore, muscle function should be considered an adverse effect of TSH suppression in patients with DTC who undergo TSH suppression therapy, especially in men of <70 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Choul Lee
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Byong-Sop Song
- Department of Core Laboratory of Translational Research, Biomedical Convergence Research Center, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Young Mi Kang
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Yu-Ri Kim
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Yea Eun Kang
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Ju Hee Lee
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Minho Shong
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
| | - Hyon-Seung Yi
- Research Center for Endocrine and Metabolic Diseases, Chungnam National University School of Medicine, Daejeon, South Korea
- Department of Core Laboratory of Translational Research, Biomedical Convergence Research Center, Chungnam National University Hospital, Daejeon, South Korea
- *Correspondence: Hyon-Seung Yi,
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