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Central Hypothyroidism

Meaning

Central hypothyroidism is a specific form of thyroid dysfunction characterized by insufficient stimulation of the thyroid gland due to a defect in the hypothalamic-pituitary axis. Unlike primary hypothyroidism, where the thyroid gland itself fails, this condition results from inadequate secretion of Thyrotropin-Releasing Hormone (TRH) from the hypothalamus or Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland. Clinical diagnosis relies on finding low levels of circulating thyroid hormones (T4 and T3) alongside non-elevated or inappropriately low TSH levels. Accurate differentiation from primary thyroid failure is essential for appropriate therapeutic intervention.