Thyroid issues only show on biopsy

[Amber810]

All blood tests are normal, but thyroid is enlarged and biopsy shows Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Why would this not show on blood work?

[SlowDragon Administrator]

They possibly only tested TSH. Or bloods were in range, but abnormal for you

Post what test results you have and ranges. Members can advise

What symptoms do you have?

For full evaluation you ideally need TSH, FT4, FT3, TT4, TPO and TG antibodies, plus vitamin D, folate, ferritin and B12 tested

See if you can get full thyroid and vitamin testing from GP. Unlikely to get FT3

Private tests are available

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/testin...

Medichecks Thyroid plus ultra vitamin or Blue Horizon Thyroid plus eleven are the most popular choice. DIY finger prick test or option to pay extra for private blood draw. Both companies often have money off offers.

All thyroid tests should be done as early as possible in morning and fasting. This gives highest TSH, lowest FT4 and most consistent results

Link about antibodies

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

Link about thyroid blood tests

thyroiduk.org/tuk/testing/t...

Print this list of symptoms off, tick all that apply and take to GP

thyroiduk.org/tuk/about_the...

[Clutter]

Amber810,

It can take years before Hashimoto's causes enough damage to cause abnormal thyroid levels.

Some people are 'sero negative' ie they haven't developed thyroid antibodies despite Hashimoto's being diagnosed by biopsy. It's possible you will develop antibodies at some time in the future but not guaranteed.

There is no cure for Hashimoto's which causes 90% of hypothyroidism. Levothyroxine treatment is for the low thyroid levels it eventually causes. Many people have found that 100% gluten-free diet is helpful in reducing Hashi flares, symptoms.

chriskresser.com/the-gluten...

thyroiduk.org.uk/tuk/about_...

[Angel_of_the_North]

I think the only way that they can tell that it is Hashis causing the problems is by measuring antibodies in blood, so, yes, Hashis would show in bloodwork as high TPO and/or TG antibodies.