A 52-year-old woman presents with fatigue, weight gain, constipation and cold intolerance. Blood tests show TSH 18 mU/L (high) and free T4 below the r...

Question

A 52-year-old woman presents with fatigue, weight gain, constipation and cold intolerance. Blood tests show TSH 18 mU/L (high) and free T4 below the reference range. According to NICE guidance, what is the most appropriate initial management?

Accepted Answer

Start Levothyroxine replacement therapy

Answer

Reassure and repeat thyroid function tests in 6 months

Answer

Start Carbimazole

Answer

No treatment is required unless TSH exceeds 30 mU/L

Answer

Refer urgently for thyroid surgery

uk-plab-1 MCQ (SBA): Primary hypothyroidism

A 52-year-old woman presents with fatigue, weight gain, constipation and cold intolerance. Blood tests show TSH 18 mU/L (high) and free T4 below the reference range. According to NICE guidance, what is the most appropriate initial management?