ThyroTest is a simple diagnostic test that may help diagnose over 13 million people who have thyroid disease and are not aware of it. Kit includes: 20 test cart., 20 lancets, 1 set +/- controls, & 1 buffer solution. ThyroTest by ThyroTec, Inc. is a rapid immunoassay, similar to a rapid pregnancy test. By using 2 drops of blood from a finger stick and 5 drops of diluent, a qualitative TSH level is indicated in minutes. • Read results in 10 minutes • The presence of lines is important, not the intensity • No special training required ('finger stick' only) • Easy to use screening test (physician's office, clinic, health fair) • Cost effective (75% less than lab, high specificity, sensitivity • Immediate results (follow up on the spot) • CLIA Waived Those at risk include: • Women over 45 years of age • Men over 65 years of age • Women who have recently given birth • Those with excess X-ray exposure • Those with a family history of hypothyroidism What does ThyroTest measure? ThyroTest is a rapid (10 minutes), qualitative (no numbers) test that measures for abnormal levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH). Elevated TSH levels indicate that the thyroid gland is not producing the amount of thyroid hormones that the body requires. The pituitary gland can sense this underproduction by the thyroid and tries to stimulate the thyroid to make more thyroid hormones through its production of TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone). That is why the TSH levels are too high when the thyroid production is too low. A positive ThyroTest measures a TSH level that is higher than normal due to an underactive thyroid hormone production. If ThyroTest is positive: If ThyroTest is positive, one should see a primary care physician to be examined more extensively. Additional thyroid tests may be ordered as well as a physical examination before a diagnosis of hypothyroidism (under-active thyroid) can be made. If ThyroTest is negative: If ThyroTest is negative, the TSH level is not elevated beyond normal limits indicating the absence of hypothyroidism. However ThyroTest cannot detect lower than normal TSH levels which might suggest hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Read the symptoms for hyperthyroidism on the Hypothyroidism page. If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor.