Recommendation on screening adults for asymptomatic thyroid dysfunction in primary care

Birtwhistle et al discuss the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care's guideline on screening for thyroid dysfunction among asymptomatic nonpregnant adults in primary care. Screening is intended to detect thyroid dysfunction in asymptomatic patients in order to prevent adverse consequences of untreated thyroid dysfunction. Screening is done by performing a blood test for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). Abnormal levels of TSH are followed up with additional diagnostic testing that often includes blood tests to measure thyroid hormone levels or other tests as warranted.