Endocrine testing thyroid disorders

Question 1

What are the disadvantages of using radioimmunoassays to assess hormone conc?

Answer 1

cost
safety implications of disposing and handling radioactive material
Limited shelf life due to radioactive decay

Question 2

What drugs can interfere with thyroid testing?

Answer 2

barbituate - promotes metabolism and turnover of thyroid hormones
Glucocorticoids - affect binding proteins and increase losses through urine to lower thyroid hormone conc)