The thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ in the neck, plays a central role in our metabolism. It produces hormones (T4, T3 and calcitonin) that are important for numerous body functions, such as the regulation of body temperature, energy levels and heart rate.
The thyroid gland produces the two hormones T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine, also known as tetraiodothyronine). T4 is produced in large quantities, but is only slightly active on its own. In the blood and in the cytosol of most body cells, T4 is converted into the biologically more active T3 by a deiodase. The physiological role of calcitonin is rather minor because bone and calcium metabolism is mainly regulated by the parathyroid hormone and vitamin D.
A malfunction of the thyroid gland can cause a variety of symptoms and significantly impairs well-being. The most common diseases are hypothyroidism (e.g. Hashimoto's), hyperthyroidism (e.g. Grave's disease) and thyroid nodules.
Thyroid diagnostics is crucial for the early detection and treatment of such diseases. It consists of
Checking the thyroid hormones in the blood to assess the function of the thyroid gland. The TSH level in the blood reacts extremely sensitively to changes in thyroid hormone levels. Therefore, the TSH measured in serum is an important parameter for assessing thyroid function and the first step in the clinical diagnosis of the thyroid gland.
An imaging method to detect the size, structure and possible nodules or cysts in the thyroid gland.
The examination is only recommended if there are suspicious changes on ultrasound.