For patients with hyperlipidemia, which test should be performed to rule out hypothyroidism?

Testing TSH levels is essential for ruling out hypothyroidism in patients with hyperlipidemia because hypothyroidism can contribute to dyslipidemia. When the thyroid gland is underactive, it can lead to elevated levels of cholesterol and other lipids in the blood. By measuring thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, healthcare providers can determine whether the thyroid is functioning properly. Elevated TSH levels typically indicate hypothyroidism, which can then be addressed to help manage the hyperlipidemia more effectively.

Other tests listed have different purposes. For instance, a fasting blood glucose test is primarily used to evaluate glucose metabolism and diabetes risk but does not provide information about thyroid function. A lipid panel measures the levels of various lipids in the blood, which might indicate the extent of hyperlipidemia but does not assess thyroid health. A complete blood count (CBC) is used to evaluate overall health and detect a variety of disorders, such as anemia or infection, but likewise does not offer insights into thyroid function. Thus, measuring TSH levels is the most appropriate choice when considering the relationship between hyperlipidemia and thyroid health.