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When assessing thyroid function, elevated TSH levels coupled with lowered thyroid hormone levels typically indicate an issue with which gland?

  1. Adrenal gland

  2. Hypothalamus

  3. Parathyroid gland

  4. Thyroid gland

The correct answer is: Thyroid gland

Elevated TSH levels coupled with lowered thyroid hormone levels typically indicate an issue with the thyroid gland. TSH, or thyroid-stimulating hormone, is produced by the pituitary gland and acts on the thyroid gland to stimulate the production of thyroid hormones. When TSH levels are elevated, it usually means that the pituitary gland is trying to stimulate the thyroid gland to produce more hormones. However, if the thyroid gland is not functioning properly, it may not be able to produce enough hormones despite the increase in TSH levels. This can result in lowered thyroid hormone levels. Thus, the other options (adrenal gland, hypothalamus, and parathyroid gland) are incorrect as they are not directly involved in thyroid function and would not be affected by elevated TSH levels.