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 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 test?
This panel provides a detailed evaluation of thyroid function. It combines a core thyroid panel (TSH, T3 Uptake, Total T4, Free T4 Index), Free T3, Free T4, two thyroid antibody markers (TPO and Thyroglobulin), and Reverse T3. Together, these markers offer a broader view of thyroid hormone production, pituitary-related regulation, and possible antibody activity, working together rather than as isolated results.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
This panel may benefit individuals who want a detailed look at their thyroid hormone levels, thyroid antibody status, and the relationship between Free T3 and Reverse T3. It may also suit those monitoring existing thyroid-related treatment or those with another autoimmune condition who want additional thyroid-related information.
3. When should I order this panel?
You may consider this panel if you want a broader thyroid evaluation than a basic screening, if you are monitoring an existing thyroid treatment plan, or if you want to follow up on previous thyroid results that showed a change. It can also be useful when comparing Free T3 and Reverse T3 levels together.
4. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required. You should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to collection, and collection should not occur during or after administration of heparin.
5. 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.
6. How do I interpret the results?
Thyroid markers are often most meaningful when viewed together rather than individually, since patterns across TSH, T3, T4, antibody, and Reverse T3 results can provide more context than a single value alone. Your healthcare provider is best positioned to review your full results and explain what they mean for you.
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.
7. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
If any of your results fall outside the expected range, share your full results with your healthcare provider. They can help 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.
8. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency depends on your individual health history and any existing thyroid-related treatment. Follow-up testing should be done as directed by your healthcare provider, based on your specific situation and prior results.
9. Why early detection matters
Regular thyroid evaluation may support earlier awareness of changes in thyroid hormone levels or antibody activity, which can be useful for ongoing monitoring. This panel does not guarantee detection of any condition, but it can offer helpful information to discuss with your healthcare provider.
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.
