Queen Anne's sign

System: Hormone & Metabolic Signs · All hormone & metabolic signs

What it is — and how it is elicited

Thinning or loss of the outer third of the eyebrows.

What a positive finding suggests

Traditionally associated with an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism).

◈ Behind the name

Traditionally named after Anne of Denmark (1574–1619), queen consort of James I, in whose portraits the feature was said to be visible.

Browse the Q section of the A–Z list or return to the Clinical Signs hub.

Please note: This page is an educational reference about clinical examination signs. A clinical sign supports — and never replaces — a full clinical evaluation, examination and appropriate testing. A sign being present does not by itself prove a diagnosis, and an absent sign does not rule one out. If you have symptoms that worry you, see a health professional.