Sample interview questions: How do you approach the treatment of thyroid disorders?
Sample answer:
Approach to the Treatment of Thyroid Disorders:
1. Thorough History and Physical Examination:
- Assess symptoms suggestive of hyperthyroidism (e.g., weight loss, anxiety, palpitations) or hypothyroidism (e.g., fatigue, cold intolerance, constipation).
- Palpate the thyroid gland for enlargement or nodules.
2. Thyroid Function Tests:
- Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH): Primary indicator of thyroid function, with elevated levels in hypothyroidism and suppressed levels in hyperthyroidism.
- Free T4: Measures the level of biologically active thyroid hormone.
- Free T3 (optional): Provides additional information in certain situations.
- Thyroglobulin antibodies: Can indicate autoimmune thyroid disease.
3. Imaging Studies (if indicated):
- Thyroid ultrasound: Visualizes the thyroid gland, detects nodules or enlargements, and guides fine-needle aspiration (FNA) if necessary.
- Thyroid scintigraphy: Evaluates thyroid uptake and distribution of iodine and can identify functional thyroid tissue (e.g., Graves’ disease).
- Computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Used for advanced imaging in cases of suspected thyroid cancer or retrosternal goiter.
4. Treatment Modalities:
Hypothyroidism:
- Levothyroxine replacement: Replaces deficient thyroid hormone. Requires regular monitoring to adjust dosage as needed.
- Synthroid, Tirosint: Alternative forms of levothyroxine with slightly different absorption characteristics.
Hyperthyroidism:
- Antithyroid medications: (e.g., methimazole, propylthiouracil) Block thyroid hormone synthesis.
- Radi… Read full answer
Source: https://hireabo.com/job/2_1_18/Endocrinologist