The thyrotropin (TSH) response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH)
was assessed in 35 consecutive male admissions. Patients with TSH blunting
were identified; they were compared with patients without blunting and with
normal subjects. Patients without TSH blunting were normal as regards all
endocrine variables. Patients with TSH blunting showed reduced TSH (but
normal prolactin) levels before and after TRH administration, although
their thyroid hormone levels and cortisol levels were normal. Height,
weight, and body surface were unrelated to TSH blunting. The test-retest
reliability of a blunted TSH response was acceptable.
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