Written question asked by Lord Blencathra (Conservative) on Tuesday, 25 January 2000, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Friday, 4 February 2000. It was answered by John Denham (Labour) on Friday, 4 February 2000 on behalf of the Department of Health.

Dept of Health

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Health, what methods are used by health authorities to test for thyroid disorder; and what plans he has to prescribe a standard test.

Answer: Mr. Maclean: To ask the Secretary of State for Health what methods are used by health authorities to test for thyroid disorder; and what plans he has to prescribe a standard test. [107488] Mr. Denham: There are a number of thyroid disorders and diseases. The results of initial testing may indicate further tests are needed to diagnose the patient's condition. The initial thyroid function tests have improved greatly in recent years as a result of medical research, and up-to-date tests are available in National Health Service laboratories. The most common are the measurement of serum thyroid stimulating hormone, and free thyroxine (T4). Others commonly used include isotope uptake studies, thyroid antibody assays, ultrasound scans and needle biopsies. All NHS laboratories participate in quality assurance schemes. The Department has no plans to issue guidance in this area.

Secondary information