Final answer:
Subclinical hypothyroidism should be treated if the TSH level is greater than 10 mU/L. TSH is produced by the anterior pituitary, and its elevation suggests hypothyroidism, which can cause symptoms like weight gain and fatigue. Treatment typically involves thyroid hormone replacement to normalize thyroid function.
Step-by-step explanation:
The appropriate TSH level at which subclinical hypothyroidism should be treated even if the patient has no symptoms is b) TSH > 10 mU/L. This is based on current medical guidelines which suggest treatment for subclinical hypothyroidism if the TSH level is consistently above 10 mU/L, especially if accompanied by positive anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies.
It's essential to distinguish that TSH is secreted from the anterior pituitary, not the hypothalamus, and it stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, including thyroxine (T4), which is crucial for maintaining a proper metabolic rate. In hypothyroidism, due to a deficiency of thyroid hormones such as T3 and T4, patients can experience a range of symptoms like weight gain and fatigue, and if left untreated, it can lead to more severe health problems. Therefore, thyroid hormone replacement therapy is a common treatment for individuals with hypothyroidism to maintain normal thyroid function and avoid complications.