Abnormalities in thyroid function tests in patients admitted to medical service

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Abstract
Serum thyroid hormone, thyrotropin and thyroxine-[T4]-binding globulin (TBG) concentrations, free T4 index values, and free T4 concentrations were measured at the time of admission in 77 patients hospitalized on a medical service on 4 separate days. Serum T4 concentrations and serum free T4 index values were decreased in 19.5% and 11.7%, respectively, and increased in 3.9% and 11.7%, respectively; serum free T4 concentrations were decreased in 6.8% and increased in 5.4%. Six patients (7.8%) had increased serum TSH concentrations. SErum triiodothyronine (T3) concentrations were decreased in 26.0% and reverse triiodothyronine (rT3) concentrations were increased in 29.9%. None had manifestations of thyroid disease. Available thyroid function tests may give misleading results in patients with nonthyroid illness, caution should be exercised in diagnosing thyroid disease in hospitalized patients.