Subclinical Hypothyroidism

Topic Overview

A doctor diagnoses mild, or subclinical, hypothyroidism through a medical history and physical exam. If your doctor suspects that you have subclinical hypothyroidism, you will have lab tests to confirm the diagnosis.

Subclinical hypothyroidism is diagnosed when you have:

Some people with subclinical hypothyroidism may test positive for antithyroid antibodies. These point to Hashimoto's thyroiditis, which may cause a gradual loss of thyroid gland function.

Some studies have shown that older adults with subclinical hypothyroidism may be more likely to have heart failure. But more research is needed.

Research does not provide clear evidence to support treatment of every person who has subclinical hypothyroidism. And many doctors disagree whether it should be treated. When making the decision to treat subclinical hypothyroidism, you and your doctor will talk about the benefits of treatment (reduced symptoms) compared to the cost of medicine and monitoring symptoms. Some studies have shown that treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism may lower cholesterol levels. But more research is needed.

Related Information

Credits

ByHealthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Matthew I. Kim, MD - Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Current as ofMarch 15, 2018