Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No fasting is required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection. Collection should not occur during or after heparin administration.
- Turnaround: 4-6 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
What's Included
Thyroid Panel with TSH
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Measures the hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates thyroid hormone production. Helps evaluate thyroid function and identify potential thyroid disorders.
- T3 Uptake: Measures thyroid hormone-binding capacity and helps evaluate thyroid function when used alongside total T4.
- T4 (Thyroxine), Total: Measures the total amount of thyroxine in the blood, including both bound and unbound forms, to help assess thyroid function.
- Free Thyroxine Index (T7): A calculated value derived from total T4 and T3 uptake that helps estimate free thyroid hormone levels.
T3, Free
T4, Free
Reverse T3
Reverse T3, Serum: A biologically inactive form of T3. Levels can rise during stress, severe illness, injury, or with certain drugs (such as amiodarone and glucocorticoids). May be evaluated alongside Free T3, although reverse T3 testing is not routinely recommended for diagnosing thyroid disorders.
Benefits
- Evaluates thyroid hormone production and regulation in one panel.
- Includes both total and free thyroid hormone measurements.
- Assesses Reverse T3 alongside Free T3 for a fuller picture.
- Supports evaluation of pituitary gland function through TSH.
- Helps assess thyroid disorder severity and monitor treatment.
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals noticing possible signs of thyroid imbalance.
- People wanting a broader view of thyroid hormone conversion, including Reverse T3.
- Those monitoring existing thyroid treatment or management.
- Individuals working with a healthcare provider to assess pituitary and thyroid function together.
- People wanting a fuller thyroid hormone picture than a basic TSH test alone.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this test?
This panel offers a detailed look at thyroid function by combining a comprehensive thyroid hormone panel, including TSH, T3 Uptake, Total T4, and Free T4 Index, with Free T3, Free T4, and Reverse T3. Together, these biomarkers help evaluate how well your thyroid is producing and converting hormones, and how your pituitary gland is signalling that process. This panel is not intended to diagnose a condition on its own.
2. Who would benefit from this test, and when should I order it?
This panel may be useful for individuals who want a more complete view of their thyroid hormone activity, including how T4 converts to active and inactive hormone forms. It may also be considered when following up on a previous thyroid-related result or monitoring an existing thyroid concern or ongoing treatment with a healthcare provider.
3. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection. Collection should not occur during or after administration of heparin.
4. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 4–6 days. This may take longer based on weather, holidays, or lab delays.
5. How do I interpret the results?
Thyroid hormone levels are often most meaningful when viewed together as a pattern rather than as isolated numbers. For example, comparing Reverse T3 to Free T3 can offer more context than either value alone. Discuss your specific results with a healthcare provider who can interpret them in light of your health history.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
6. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Share your results with a healthcare provider, who can help interpret them alongside your symptoms and health history. They can help determine whether further testing, monitoring, or treatment adjustments may be appropriate.
7. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your individual health circumstances. Follow up as directed by your healthcare provider, particularly if you are monitoring an existing thyroid concern or ongoing treatment.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required. Patient should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection. Collection should not occur during or after administration of heparin.
