Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 19, 2026

Treating Clinical Depression with Repetitive Deep Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Using the Brainsway H1-coil
Published on: October 4, 2016
The significance of an isolated elevated TSH level in a depressed patient: a clinical commentary
Russell T Joffe1, Timothy B Sullivan2
1Staten Island University Hospital, New York Hofstra LIJ North Shore School of Medicine, Hempstead, New York.
Objective:
To discuss the approach to the isolated finding of an elevated thyrotropin (TSH) level on routine biochemical screening of a depressed patient.
Method:
A focused literature review as well as discussion of published clinical guidelines and the formulation of a rational clinical approach.
Results:
Screening for thyroid dysfunction is part of the routine assessment of the depressed patient. It is not uncommon for such patients to have an isolated elevation of TSH levels with nor laboratory or clinical features of thyroid disease. There is often misunderstanding about how to deal with this isolated laboratory finding which can lead to unnecessary investigation and treatment.
Conclusions:
A rational approach to evaluation and management of an isolated elevated TSH level is suggested.
Related Concept Videos
Synthesis and Regulation of Thyroid Hormones
Upon reaching the thyroid gland, TSH stimulates the follicular cells' active uptake of iodide ions from the blood. The ions diffuse to the apical surface of the cells and are oxidized to iodine. The...
Hypothyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Hyperthyroidism I: Introduction
Hyperthyroidism II: Pathophysiology
Graves Disease II: Pathophysiology
Graves' Disease I: Introduction

