BASAL METABOLIC RATE, PROTEIN-BOUND IODINE AND RADIOACTIVE IODINE UPTAKE: A COMPARATIVE STUDY

Abstract

Three tests of thyroid function, the basal metabolic rate (BMR), the protein-bound iodine (PBI), and the radioactive iodine uptake (RAI) were performed on a series of patients. Results indicate a 10% error rate for the BMR, 6% for the RAI, and 2.5% for the PBI. For a routine test the PBI is to be preferred because it is slightly less subject to error, easier for the patient and, in our hospital, is less expensive. When difficult diagnostic problems in thyroid disease are encountered all available tests of thyroid function may be necessary for proper evaluation of the patient.