[Ultrasensitive TSH screening for detection of thyroid gland dysfunctions in women of a medical ambulatory care patient group].

This aim of the study was to identify the prevalence of unsuspected thyroid dysfunction in a female population attending a medical primary care unit (case-finding study). A TSH assay of the third generation was used as a screening test. The overall prevalence of unsuspected thyroid dysfunction in 1061 female patients was 2.5% (0.5% overt hyperthyroidism, 0.3% overt hypothyroidism, 0.5% subclinical hyperthyroidism, and 1.2% subclinical hypothyroidism). The prevalence of thyroid disease is clearly age dependent with 4.3% over the age of 40 and 5.9% for 50-60 year-olds. The ratio for females below 40 and over 40 was 10.75 (Odds ratio, p < 0.0001). We conclude from our study and from the literature that TSH screening as a case-finding strategy is indicated, and also seems cost-effective, in women over 40 years of age.