GP's frustrating me - help please!

[Kaylee1211]

Hello,

so brief history - I'm 29, I've had thyroid cancer twice, once in the thyroid gland, then 2 years later it came back in the lymph nodes. I've had two lots of radioactive iodine and have been ok for the last couple of years.

I'm due to have my routine check up with my oncologist so I always have a blood test done in preparation. Usually my thyroglobulin is tested as the oncologist likes to use it. My GP NEVER takes this though, its always an argument I have with them.

anyway - the results that came back are not in line with what they usually are (listed below)

Serum free T4 level 12.4 pmol/L [7.0 - 16.0]

Serum TSH level 3.41 miu/L [0.38 - 5.33]

My TSH since diagnosis has always been around 0.005 but has now shot up.

I cant get any sense out of the doctor as they say its within normal range (based on a normal person with a normal thyroid!)

is this something I should be concerned about?

Thanks

[SlowDragon Administrator]

Yes. After thyroid cancer thyroxine dose is usually higher to keep TSH suppressed and TG antibodies low as possible

TG antibodies need testing too obviously

Have you had change in brand of Levothyroxine?

What dose are you currently taking

Private tests are available. Thousands on here forced to do this as NHS often refuses to test FT3 or antibodies or Vitamins

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 ideally be done as early as possible in morning and fasting. When on Levothyroxine, take last dose 24 hours prior to test, and take next dose straight after test. This gives highest TSH, lowest FT4 and most consistent results. (Patient to patient tip, GP will be unaware)