Hypothyroidism means

• A. Overactive thyroid function
• B. Condition of low thyroid function
• C. Enlargement of the thyroid gland
• D. Inflammation of thyroid gland

Answer: (B)

Hypothyroidism is a state in which the thyroid gland is underactive, producing not enough thyroid hormones to meet the body's needs. The word breaks down to hypo- meaning low or deficient, thyroid referring to the thyroid gland, and -ism indicating a condition. When thyroid hormone levels are low, the body's metabolism slows down, which is why this term is best described as a condition of low thyroid function. The other terms refer to different thyroid issues: an overactive thyroid is hyperthyroidism, enlargement of the thyroid gland is goiter, and inflammation of the thyroid gland is thyroiditis.