My WebMD Sign In

Please enter email address

Enter your password

Keep me signed in on this computer

Show more Information

If you select "Keep me signed in on this computer", every time you visit WebMD.com you won't have to type your email address and password. This means that a cookie will stay on your computer even when you exit or close your browser which may reduce your levels of privacy and security. You should never select this option if you're using a publicly accessible computer, or if you're sharing a computer with others. Even if you select this option there are some features of our site that still require you to log in for privacy reasons.

Forget your password? Having trouble signing in?

Why should I
sign up for WebMD?

With a WebMD Account you can:

Track your way to weight loss success
Manage your family's vaccinations
Join the conversation

See more benefits Sign Up

Why WebMD?

My WebMD

Show Menu

Facebook Twitter Pinterest

WebMD Home

A to Z Guides

Email a Friend

Print Article

Information and Resources

Font Size

Thyroid Testing

It is not clear whether people who do not have any risk factors and who do not have any symptoms of thyroid problems-which include an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism), thyroid nodules, and thyroid cancer-need to be screened for thyroid problems.

The American Thyroid Association recommends that all adults be tested beginning at age 35 and continuing every 5 years.¹ After reviewing all of the research, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has not recommended for or against routine thyroid testing.² Some other groups suggest that people who are at high risk-pregnant women, anyone with a personal or family history of thyroid disease, and people with other autoimmune diseases-may want to be screened. Talk to your doctor about whether you need to be tested for thyroid problems.

Recommended Related to Thyroid Disorders

Understanding Graves' Disease -- the Basics

First described by Sir Robert Graves in the early 19th century, Graves' disease is one of the most common of all thyroid problems. It is also the leading cause of hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces excessive hormones. Once the disorder has been correctly diagnosed, it is quite easy to treat. In some cases, Graves' disease goes into remission or disappears completely after several months or years. Left untreated, however, it can lead to serious complications -- even...

Read the Understanding Graves' Disease -- the Basics article > >

People who have a family history of medullary thyroid cancer (MTC) may want to have a genetic test. Before having the test, it is a good idea to talk with a genetic counselor. He or she can help you understand what your test results may mean.

For more information, see the topics Hyperthyroidism, Hypothyroidism, Thyroid Nodules, and Thyroid Cancer.

Citations
Ladenson PW, et al. (2000). American Thyroid Association guidelines for detection of thyroid dysfunction. Archives of Internal Medicine, 160: 1573-1575.
U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (2004). Screening for thyroid disease: Recommendation statement. Annals of Internal Medicine, 140: 125-141.

By	Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer	E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer	David C.W. Lau, MD, PhD, FRCPC - Endocrinology
Last Revised	November 4, 2011

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: November 04, 2011

This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any liability for the decisions you make based on this information.