TSH and congenital hypothyroidism, and anatomical location of thyroid gland.

1.      Amanda hates her new student ID photo. Her hair looks dry, the extra weight that she’s gained shows, and her neck looks fat. In fact, there’s an odd butterfly shaped swelling across the front of her neck, under her chin. Amanda’s also been feeling very tired and mentally “dull” lately, but she figures all new A&P students feel that way. Should she visit the clinic or just wear turtlenecks?

A/ Amanda has signs and symptoms of hypothyroidism so she should visit a doctor. 

2.      Amanda (from question above) goes to the clinic and blood is drawn. The results show that her T4 levels are low and her TSH levels are low. Later she is given a TSH stimulation test in which TSH is injected and the T4 levels are monitored. After TSH injection, her T4 levels rise. Does Amanda have problems with her pituitary or with her thyroid gland? How did you come to your conclusion?

A/ There is a positive response to TSH so there is no problem in the thyroid gland. The problem could be in the pituitary gland. 

3.      The thyroid gland is located (more than one could apply)

a)      Inferior to the larynx

b)     In the cranial cavity

c)      Anterior to the trachea

d)      In the abdominal cavity

e)      Inferior to the diaphragm

f)       Posterior to the eyes

g)      Posterior to the trachea

h)     Within the thoracic cavity

i)        Within the pericardium

4.      Congenital hypothyroidism (CH) is a condition of thyroid hormone deficiency present at birth. Approximately 1 in 4000 newborn infants has a severe deficiency of thyroid function, while even more have mild or partial degrees. If untreated for several months after birth, severe congenital hypothyroidism can lead to growth failure and permanent mental retardation. Around the world, the most common cause of congenital hypothyroidism is ­­­­­­­_____________ deficiency.

a)      Iodine

b)     Iron

c)      Calcium

d)     Potassium

e)      Sodium