Understanding AACE & TSH Levels: Thyroid Health Explained

The AACE, the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists, has set recommendations for what levels of hormones indicate thyroid disease or disorders. TSH, or thyroid stimulating hormone, levels indicate the level of function of the thyroid gland. The thyroid is important to the function of many organs, including the brain, heart, kidney, liver and skin.

Identification

• Hyper- and hypothyroidism are diagnosed by physical examination and medical history, but a key component of diagnosis is the TSH level.

Function

• In 2003, AACE recommended an average range of TSH levels between 0.3 to 3.0. Anyone outside these limits should be considered for treatment for hyperthyroidism, if under 0.3, and for hypothyroidism, if over 3.0.

Treatment

• According to AACE guidelines, the treatment for hypothyroidism is 25mg to 50mg daily of levothyroxine. Several weeks later, levels should be rechecked and dosages adjusted accordingly.