Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam Related

Review Medical Surgical ATI Proctored Exam related questions and content

A 48-year-old man presents with fatigue, weight gain, and cold intolerance. Laboratory tests reveal high TSH and low free T4 levels. What is the most likely diagnosis?

  • A. Hypothyroidism
  • B. Hyperthyroidism
  • C. Thyroiditis
  • D. Thyroid cancer
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hypothyroidism. In this scenario, the patient has symptoms of hypothyroidism (fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance) along with high TSH and low free T4 levels, indicating primary hypothyroidism. TSH is elevated as the body is trying to stimulate the thyroid to produce more thyroid hormones. Free T4 is low as the thyroid is not able to produce enough hormones. Hyperthyroidism (choice B) would present with low TSH and high free T4 levels. Thyroiditis (choice C) typically presents with symptoms of hyperthyroidism followed by hypothyroidism. Thyroid cancer (choice D) usually does not cause these specific symptoms and lab findings. Therefore, based on the symptoms and lab results, hypothyroidism is the most likely diagnosis.