Vast majority of thyroid function disturbances have primary (peripheral) etiology due to thyroid gland disorders. Rarely, dysfunction of central regulatory structures, hypothalamus and pituitary, can be a cause of both, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Despite being very rare, it is important to be aware of them not to misdiagnose their etiology. Early and correct etiological diagnosis is necessary for proper cure and decrease of morbidity and mortality of affected patients. Present review article summarizes basics and specific features of central disturbances of thyroid function, their clinical signs, diagnosis, differential diagnosis and treatment.Key words: hypothalamus - hyperthyroidism - hypothyroidism - pituitary - thyrotropinoma.