MON-462 Rebel Nodule or Reluctant Gland? the Challenge Presented by Heterophile Antibodies

Abstract

Introduction:Interpretation of thyroid function tests (TFTs) in background of non-specific symptoms concerning for hypothyroidism, has become challenging with assay interference. Heterophile antibody interferences are both test and laboratory platform dependent. We present a case of a toxic nodule erroneously diagnosed as isolated central hypothyroidism due to heterophile antibody interference.Case:A 38 year old lady was referred to Endocrinology for possible central hypothyroidism with symptoms of progressive fatigue, 40lb unintentional weight loss, poor appetite, nausea, intermittent diarrhea/constipation, occasional cold intolerance and intermittent lightheadedness. TFTs suggested low TSH 0.175 mcIU/ml (N 0.35-3.8 mcIU/ml) and low FT4 0.74 ng/dl (N 0.8-1.8 ng/dl). Pituitary hormone evaluation revealed normal ACTH, AM cortisol, IGF-1, prolactin and FSH. A pituitary MRI was normal.Two months later, she had worsening fatigue, anxiety with palpitations and tremors, and 14lb weight gain. TFTs again confirmed low TSH (0.575 mcIU/ml) and lower FT4 (0.70 ng/dl). Empirical weight-based levothyroxine (LT4) supplementation was initiated for central hypothyroidism. Six weeks later, TFTs showed hyperthyroidism (TSH <0.005 mcIU/ml, FT4 1.57 ng/dl). The patient endorsed worsening lightheadedness and palpitations on LT4, which resolved on LT4 discontinuation. One month later, TFTs were abnormal again (TSH 0.047 mcIU/ml, FT4 0.74 ng/dl).Due to persistent discordance in symptoms and biochemical tests, TFTs were evaluated for heterophile antibody interference. While HAMA-treated TSH remained low (0.04 mIU/l), FT4 by equilibrium dialysis (FT4 ED) was normal (1.1 ng/dl, regular assay 0.74 ng/dl), suggesting subclinical hyperthyroidism. A thyroid uptake scan confirmed an autonomous toxic right thyroid nodule with suppressed remaining gland. Patient ultimately underwent 15 mCi RAI ablation of the nodule. TFTs done 1 month post-RAI suggested normal TSH (1.2 mcIU/ml) and normal FT4 ED (1 ng/dl). Previous symptoms have since resolved.Conclusion:Current methods of TFTs are generally reliable in diagnosing and monitoring thyroid disease. Rarely, medications, supplements, and endogenous antibodies can bind to TSH, T4 or lab reagent, resulting in inaccurate values. This has become increasingly common with use of high dose biotin. TSH with HAMA/heterophile antibodies and FT4 ED are more accurate forms of diagnostic testing.When approaching patients with symptoms not consistent with typical hypo- or hyperthyroidism and are not responding as expected to therapy, it is important to consider more accurate testing to rule out assay errors.