Laboratory Thyroid Tests—A Historical Perspective

Abstract

In this “American Thyroid Association Centennial Paper Author Interview Series” video, Dr. Caroline Nguyen interviews Dr. Carole Spencer to discuss her Centennial Paper on the historical development of laboratory thyroid tests that will be published in Thyroid. The interview covers the key points and challenges of writing the article, including the major technical advances in thyroid laboratories over the past 70 years, which have changed the way patients with thyroid disease are cared for. Dr. Spencer explains that the development of radioimmunoassay methodology in the 1960s was a significant breakthrough, and the development of the third-generation thyroid stimulating hormone assay in 1990 enabled the diagnosis of the whole range of thyroid dysfunctions. Dr. Spencer also highlights the challenges that remain in the field, such as method-to-method variability and interferences in some specificity and sensitivity, which need to be standardized. Lastly, she notes her pride in being a member of the American Thyroid Association and how it has supported her throughout her career and adapted to changes in the field. No competing financial interests exist. Runtime of video: 8 mins 17 secs