Thyroid Profile Test
About Thyroid Profile Test
A thyroid panel is used to check the function of the thyroid gland. This gland is a butterfly-shaped organ at the front of the neck and is responsible for the production of hormones that are important for regulating the body's metabolism. Abnormal thyroid function, like underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) or overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) can cause many symptoms. By measuring thyroid hormone levels in the blood, the panel helps diagnose thyroid disease and thyroid dysfunction.
Functions of thyroid gland
- Regulates the rate at which the body uses calories
- Regulates body temperature
- Maintains pulse and heartbeat
- Promotes brain development
The thyroid panel uses a blood sample to assess thyroid function. It is also used to monitor treatment for hyperthyroidism and to evaluate patients receiving hormone therapy which replaces thyroid hormones that are depleted or lacking due to conditions like hypothyroidism, thyroid cancer, thyroid nodules, and goitres. Thus, getting your thyroid profile done is recommended to detect or diagnose thyroid diseases.
Symptoms of an overactive thyroid:
Anxiety
Difficulty in sleeping
Tiredness
Sensitivity to heat
Diarrhea
Persistent thirst
Itchiness
Symptoms of an underactive thyroid:
Tiredness
Sensitivity to cold
Weight gain
Constipation
Depression
Muscle aches and weakness
What tests are included in a thyroid profile test?
The Thyroid function Test (TFT) measures the values of the following hormones in the blood:
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH):
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thyroid hormones such as T4 and T3. Hypothyroidism (thyroid hormone deficiency) is usually associated with high TSH levels, while hyperthyroidism (thyroid hormone excess) is associated with low TSH levels.
Thyroxine (T4):
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This tests for hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism and is used to monitor treatment of thyroid disorders. Low T4 is seen with hypothyroidism and high T4 levels may indicate hyperthyroidism.
Free Thyroxine (Free T4):
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It is a method of measuring T4 that eliminates the effect of proteins that naturally bind to T4 and interfere with accurate measurements.
Triiodothyronine (T3):
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This test helps to diagnose hyperthyroidism or to show the severity of hyperthyroidism where T3 levels are elevated.
Free Triiodothyronine (Free T3):
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It is a method of measuring T3 that eliminates the effect of proteins that naturally bind to T3 and interfere with accurate measurements.
Who should get tested?
A thyroid profile test is recommended for:
Women of all ages. Women are more likely than men to have low thyroid hormone levels
Checking how well the thyroid gland is working
Diagnosing thyroid disorders like Grave’s disease, Hashimoto’s disease
Preparation for test
Certain medicines may affect the results of thyroid profile test, therefore ask your doctor whether to continue medications or not before the test, and make sure to follow instructions closely.
Interpretation of results
Parameters |
Normal thyroid profile levels |
| Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) | 0.40 - 4.50 mIU/mL |
| Thyroxine (T4) | 5.0 – 11.0 ug/dL |
| Free Thyroxine (Free T4) | 0.9 - 1.7 ng/dL |
| Triiodothyronine (T3) | 100 - 200 ng/dL |
| Free Triiodothyronine (Free T3) | 2.3 - 4.1 pg/mL |
Deviation from normal levels indicates the following:
- A higher than normal TSH level or lower T3 and T4 levels may be due to conditions like an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism), malnutrition and severe acute illness.
- A lower than normal TSH level or higher T3 and T4 levels may be due to overactive thyroid gland, which can be caused by conditions like Grave’s disease, toxic nodular goitre or multinodular goitre, too much iodine in the body and taking too much thyroid hormone medicine.
FAQs
Are there medications that interfere with thyroid profile testing?
Yes! Many medications can affect the thyroid status. For example, Biotin, which is a commonly taken over-the-counter supplement and some birth control pills can cause thyroid function tests to appear to look abnormal when they are actually normal in the blood.
When do I need a thyroid profile test?
It is recommended to take a thyroid profile test if you have symptoms of underactive or overactive thyroid gland like weight gain/loss, tiredness, anxiety, bowel problems, sensitivity to heat/cold etc. Increased thyroid hormones in your blood is called hyperthyroidism and decreased thyroid hormones is known as hypothyroidism.
Can I take thyroid tests during pregnancy?
Yes, if required. It is not uncommon for thyroid hormone levels to change during pregnancy. If you already have a thyroid condition or developed a thyroid condition during pregnancy, your doctor will monitor your condition and ask for a thyroid test and additional blood tests. During the first half of your pregnancy your thyroid levels will be checked every 4 to 6 weeks, and at least once after 30 weeks.
What are the risks associated with a thyroid profile test?
This test involves negligible risk. There might be slight pain or tenderness around the site where the needle is inserted. Rarely, the site can become infected.
What are the limitations of a thyroid profile test?
Thyroid test results are not always accurate as outside factors may affect the results of your thyroid blood test. These factors include diet, what time of day you take the test, certain illness, stress, and sleep. Some medications and supplements may also affect your results.
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