What hormonal profile indicates hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism is characterized by a deficiency in the production of thyroid hormones, primarily T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine). When the thyroid gland does not produce enough of these hormones, it results in a decreased level of both T3 and T4 in the bloodstream.

This lack of thyroid hormones leads to a compensatory increase in Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH) from the pituitary gland, as the body attempts to stimulate the thyroid to produce more hormones. Therefore, the hormonal profile that indicates hypothyroidism would show decreased levels of T3 and T4, confirming the diagnosis of inadequate thyroid function.

The other options, which indicate increased or normal levels of T3 and/or T4, do not reflect the hormonal changes seen in hypothyroidism. Increased levels would suggest hyperthyroidism or normal functioning, while normal levels of T3 and T4 would indicate adequate thyroid function, thus ruling out hypothyroidism.