Description

Thyroid function testing can be evaluated with a TSH and a T4 level. If your thyroid function is abnormal, these tests are typically abnormal. TSH is typically elevated if your thyroid function is low, and low if your thyroid function is in excess. Checking a T4, which is actually the hormone produced by the thyroid, aids in evaluating your thyroid function. This is certainly not an exhaustive list and there are more comprehensive thyroid function tests to be evaluated.

This panel includes the following test:

Free T4

TSH

Fasting not required.

Additional information about each test is listed below:

A free thyroxine test, often called a free T4 test, measures the amount of free thyroxine in your blood. When T4 is created, some of the hormone gets bound to proteins while the rest circulates freely.

TSH Blood Test or Thyroid Function Blood Test measures the level of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). The quantity of TSH has a direct impact on the levels of thyroid hormones causing either over-active thyroid or under-active thyroid. Regulating the thyroid gland is important because the thyroid produces several hormones which can stimulate or shut down certain processes in the body.

TSH Blood Test or Thyroid Function blood test helps detect hyperthyroidism, whose symptoms may include weight loss, rapid heart rate, nervousness, diarrhea, irregular menstrual periods; and hypothyroidism, whose symptoms are weight gain, dry skin, constipation, tiredness, frequent menstrual periods.