Medical Laboratory Scientist (MLS) ASCP Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

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In patients with suspected primary hypothyroidism associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, what is expected for T4 levels?

Increased

Decreased

In patients with suspected primary hypothyroidism associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, decreased levels of T4 (thyroxine) are expected. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and impaired production of thyroid hormones.

In the initial stages, the thyroid may continue to produce adequate amounts of T4, but as the disease progresses and more thyroid tissue is damaged, the production of T4 decreases. In primary hypothyroidism, the feedback mechanism in the hypothalamus and pituitary gland becomes altered. The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels generally rise due to decreased levels of circulating thyroid hormones (such as T4).

This decrease in T4 levels is characteristic of primary hypothyroidism, which is why this situation is often used to confirm the diagnosis.

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