In the thyroid world, you hear alot of terms thrown around, some of which can be pretty confusing. Here's some important ones to learn.

AMA
Antimicrosomal antibodies (AMA). These can also be called antithyroid microsomal antibodies. The normal level is 0. You'll see a rise when someone has chronic autoimmune thyroiditis.

Anti-TPO
This is a measurement of antithyroid peroxidase (also known as "anti-TPO") antibodies to thyroid peroxidase. The normal level is 0. You'll see an elevation in chronic autoimmune thyroiditis.

TSH
This is the major thyroid test, the measurement of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). TSH is produced by the pituitary gland, and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormone. Values vary by lab, but typically range from around .35-.5 as the bottom end of the normal range to 5 - 5.5 to the top end of the normal range. Less thn .35-.5 is considered hyPERthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. More than 5 - 5.5 is considered hyPOthyroidism, or an underactive thyroid.

Thyrotropin
A term sometimes used interchangeable with "TSH" to refer to the level of TSH.

TRH
Thyroid/thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH), which is secreted from the hypothalamus and helps to stimulate TSH production.

T4 / Thyroxine
These are interchangeable terms. T4 is produced by the thyroid gland, and secreted into the bloodstream.

T3/Triiodothyronine
These are interchangeable terms. T4 comes into contact with certain proteins in the body and reacts to create T3.

If you'd have more terms you'd like defined, or you want to drop me a line, email me at thyroid.guide@about.com!

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