Thyroid Levels in a Child

Dear Ask The Doctor: My 5 year old boy was adviced for thyroid test as his neck was fat. Test result shows TSH 5.76. rest all are under permitted limits. Earlier my child had ricket. he is also slightly over weight. My question : Is he having thyroid problem. How serious is this count of TSH 5.76? what way it will harm my child? any particular precaution? we are in mumbai, india.

Dear Aliasger: The normal levels for TSH in a child ranges from 0.7 to 6.4 mU/L which may differ from lab to lab. Your child's TSH level of 5.76 is within the normal range, so there is no need to be concerned.

Usually a high TSH level indicates that the thyroid gland is not functioning properly (hypothyroidism) often caused by hashimoto's thyroiditis, thyroid hormone resistance or a pituitary gland tumor. You will need to consult with your child's doctor to help determine the best course of action for either monitoring or treating thyroid function.