Instructions
You are a medical student on placement in general practice. Karen Doyle, 44, an electrician, had bloods last week for tiredness and feeling cold. She has come back for the results.
Take a focused history
Interpret the results provided and explain them to Ms Doyle
Counsel Ms Doyle on starting thyroxine and agree a management plan
- You do not need to examine the patient
Blood tests
| Item | Value | Reference range |
|---|---|---|
| TSH | 18.0 mU/L | 0.5-4.0 mU/L |
| Free T4 | 8 pmol/L | 10-20 pmol/L |
| TPO antibodies | Strongly positive (610 IU/mL) | <35 IU/mL |
| Total cholesterol | 5.9 mmol/L | <5.5 mmol/L |
| LDL | 3.8 mmol/L | <3.0 mmol/L |