The iodine-containing protein that is stored in the thyroid gland. It is converted into circulating thyroxines when the thyroid is stimulated by TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) from the pituitary (in turn stimulated by the hypothalamus, where thyroxine levels are actually monitored). See: T4
n. a protein in the thyroid gland from which the *thyroid hormones (thyroxine and triiodotyrosine) are synthesized.
the use of radioactive iodine (iodine-131) to destroy any residual thyroid tissue after thyroidectomy for cancer. Subsequent radioiodine treatment may be necessary to treat suspected or known residual thyroid cancer cells. Following ablation, thyroglobulin levels can be used as a *tumour marker.... radioiodine ablation
autoantibodies directed against the cells of the thyroid gland, which serve as a marker of autoimmune thyroid disease. There are two main types: antibodies directed against the thyroid peroxidise (TPO) enzyme; and anti-thyroglobulin, directed against the thyroid colloid (see thyroid gland). The highest level of thyroid antibodies is found in *Hashimoto’s disease.... thyroid antibodies
a large *endocrine gland situated in the base of the neck (see illustration). It consists of two lobes, one on either side of the trachea, that are joined by an isthmus (sometimes a third lobe extends upwards from the isthmus). The thyroid gland consists of a large number of closed follicles inside which is a jelly-like colloid, which contains *thyroglobulin and the principal active substances that are secreted by the gland. The thyroid gland is concerned with regulation of the metabolic rate by the secretion of *thyroid hormone, which is stimulated by *thyroid-stimulating hormone from the pituitary gland and requires trace amounts of iodine. The *C cells of the thyroid gland secrete *calcitonin.... thyroid gland
an iodine-containing substance, synthesized and secreted by the thyroid gland, that is essential for normal metabolic processes and mental and physical development. There are two thyroid hormones, *triiodothyronine and *thyroxine, which are formed from *thyroglobulin. Lack of these hormones gives rise to *cretinism in infants and *myxoedema in adults. Excessive production of thyroid hormones gives rise to *thyrotoxicosis.... thyroid hormone
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