Dr. Rouzier discusses the importance of utilizing research that proves harm of thyroid hormone and TSH suppression, needs to come from an outcome study (RCT of Grade A evidence) not baseline observational studies (in Graves’ Disease) that prove nothing. In addition, Dr. Rouzier reviews the epidemiology studies that show harm in hyperthyroidism from Graves Disease and not exogenous thyroid replacement. He stresses the importance of not associating suppressed TSH levels with the same autoimmune issues found with Graves Disease.
Objectives:
Upon completion of this workshop, the healthcare professional will be able to:
- Recognize that suppressed TSH levels from exogenous thyroid administration does not result in harm, based on literature review and meta-analysis.
- Recall that a suppressed TSH, along with elevated thyroid hormone produced endogenously, is associated with harm but that is only with Graves’ disease.
- Discuss why suppressed levels of TSH with exogenous administration will not result in the same harm as seen with Graves’ disease.
- Demonstrate that the harm of Graves’ disease should not be extrapolated to suppressing TSH with exogenous thyroid hormone administration.
- Review the studies demonstrating the harm of autoimmune Graves’ disease, even after definitive treatment and normalization of thyroid hormone.
- Finally, contrast the persistent harm of Graves’ disease from the autoimmune disease that should not be extrapolated to TSH suppression from exogenous thyroid administration.
