Hypothyroidism is characterized by which of the following?

• A. Hypothyroidism
• B. Hyperthyroidism
• C. Goiter
• D. Thyroid storm

Answer: (A)

Hypothyroidism is a state of insufficient thyroid hormone production, which slows overall metabolism. When a question asks what characterizes hypothyroidism, the best choice is the term that directly names the condition itself, because the defining issue is underproduction of thyroid hormones. The opposite condition, hyperthyroidism, involves too much thyroid hormone and a faster metabolism. A goiter means the thyroid gland is enlarged, which can occur with various thyroid problems but isn’t the defining feature of hypothyroidism. Thyroid storm is an acute, life-threatening crisis of hyperthyroidism, not a characteristic of hypothyroidism. In primary hypothyroidism you’d typically see high TSH and low free T4, along with symptoms like fatigue, cold intolerance, weight gain, and dry skin.