Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No fasting required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection. Collection should not occur during or after administration of heparin.
- 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): Produced by the pituitary gland, TSH helps identify an underactive or overactive thyroid state.
- T3 Uptake: Part of the comprehensive thyroid hormone evaluation included in this panel.
- T4 (Thyroxine), Total: Measures total thyroxine as part of the core thyroid function evaluation.
- Free T4 Index (T7): A calculated value included with this panel's thyroid hormone evaluation.
Free T3
- Triiodothyronine (T3), Free: Helps confirm hyperthyroidism when an elevated free or total thyroxine level is found, and is not affected by carrier protein variation.
Free T4
- Thyroxine (T4) Free (Direct): The active form of thyroxine, considered a more accurate reflection of thyroid hormone function than total T4.
Thyroid Antibodies
- Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Ab: Helps provide a differential diagnosis between hypothyroidism and thyroiditis.
- Thyroglobulin Antibody: Helps investigate the cause of enlarged thyroid glands (goiters) and supports follow up evaluation alongside T3, T4, and TSH results.
Reverse T3
- Reverse T3, Serum: A biologically inactive form of T3 that can rise under stress, illness, or injury. Evaluating it alongside Free T3 helps assess the ratio between the two.
Benefits
- Evaluates thyroid hormone production and pituitary-related feedback in one panel.
- Includes two thyroid antibody markers for a broader autoimmune picture.
- Adds Reverse T3 for a more complete T3 to RT3 comparison.
- Supports monitoring of existing thyroid treatment over time.
- Combines multiple thyroid markers to help identify patterns.
Who Is This Test For?
- People noticing possible signs of thyroid imbalance.
- Individuals who want a broad look at thyroid hormone and antibody levels.
- People currently monitoring an existing thyroid treatment plan.
- Individuals with a known autoimmune condition who want a thyroid-related check.
- People wanting a more complete picture using Reverse T3 alongside Free T3.
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this panel?
This panel provides a detailed evaluation of thyroid function. It includes a core thyroid panel (TSH, T3 Uptake, Total T4, and Free T4 Index), Free T3, Free T4, thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and thyroglobulin antibodies, and Reverse T3. Together, these markers provide information about thyroid hormone production, pituitary-related regulation, and possible antibody activity.
2. When might I consider ordering this panel?
You may consider this panel if you want a broader thyroid evaluation than a basic screening, are monitoring an existing thyroid treatment plan, or are following up on thyroid results that showed a change. It may also be useful for people with another autoimmune condition seeking additional thyroid-related information.
3. Do I need to fast or prepare before this test?
Fasting is not required. Stop taking biotin at least 72 hours before collection, and do not collect the sample during or after heparin administration.
4. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 4–6 days. Weather, holidays, or laboratory delays may extend this timeframe.
5. How do I interpret the results?
Thyroid markers are often more meaningful when reviewed together. Patterns across TSH, T3, T4, antibody, and Reverse T3 results may provide more context than one value alone. A healthcare provider can interpret the full results in the context of your health history and treatment plan.
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 outside the expected range?
Share your full results with your healthcare provider. They can determine whether further evaluation, monitoring, or a change in your care plan is appropriate. Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
7. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your health history, prior results, and any existing thyroid-related treatment. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance.
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.
Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
