Which lab findings are typically associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis?

The typical lab findings associated with Hashimoto's thyroiditis include high thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, low thyroxine (T4) levels, and the presence of anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies.

In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, an autoimmune disorder, the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to its destruction and impaired hormone production. As the gland becomes less functional and produces lower levels of T4, the feedback mechanism triggers the pituitary gland to produce more TSH in an attempt to stimulate the thyroid. Consequently, patients often present with elevated TSH levels and decreased T4 levels, indicative of hypothyroidism. The presence of anti-TPO antibodies is a hallmark of the disease, as these antibodies target the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is vital for thyroid hormone synthesis.

In summary, the combination of high TSH, low T4, and the presence of anti-TPO antibodies is characteristic of Hashimoto's thyroiditis and confirms its diagnosis.