Repeated thyroid function testing is unnecessary in previously euthyroid over 65s, study finds

Routine thyroid function tests (TFT) in older people who have shown normal thyroid function in the previous five years is unnecessary unless their clinical circumstances change, a UK study has shown.1

The large, population based longitudinal investigation involving almost 3000 people aged over 65 showed high stability of thyroid function over a five year interval, especially in participants who were euthyroid (had normal TFT) at baseline.

“Reducing repeat thyroid function tests in older individuals is possible without conferring risk,” said the authors. “As well as reducing workload and patient inconvenience, following this …