All blood draws are performed by trained phlebotomists
Ultimate Thyroid Blood Test
A comprehensive thyroid blood test, often referred to as a thyroid panel, includes several markers to assess thyroid function thoroughly.
Here’s a list of parameters that included in an “ultimate” thyroid blood test:
- Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and stimulates the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones. Elevated levels of TSH may indicate hypothyroidism, while low levels may suggest hyperthyroidism.
- Unbound Thyroxine (T4): T4 is the biologically active form of thyroxine, the primary thyroid hormone. It helps regulate metabolism and energy levels. Abnormal levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction.
- Unbound Triiodothyronine (T3): T3 is the active form of triiodothyronine, another thyroid hormone. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and other bodily functions. Abnormal levels may indicate thyroid dysfunction.
- Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO Ab): TPO Ab is an antibody that targets thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme involved in thyroid hormone production. Elevated levels may indicate autoimmune thyroid disease, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
- Thyroglobulin Antibodies (Tg Ab): Tg Ab is an antibody that targets thyroglobulin, a protein involved in thyroid hormone synthesis. Elevated levels may indicate autoimmune thyroid disease, such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.
- Micronutrients: Vitamins D and B12, folate and ferritin because these are important for the healthy function of your thyroid.
- C-reactive protein: The symptoms caused by deficiencies of the micronutrients may mimic thyroid problems and the inflammation marker is a good overall inflammation indicator with this panel.
Here are some symptoms that may prompt the need for Thyroid blood testing:
Symptoms Indicative of Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)
- Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or lack of energy that doesn’t improve with rest.
- Weight Gain: Unexplained weight gain, often accompanied by difficulty losing weight.
- Cold Intolerance: Feeling unusually cold compared to others around you.
- Dry Skin and Hair: Skin that is dry and flaky; hair that is brittle, thinning, or falling out.
- Constipation: Infrequent bowel movements or difficulty passing stools.
- Depression and Mood Changes: Persistent low mood, depression, or irritability.
- Cognitive Issues: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, or brain fog.
- Muscle Weakness and Aches: Generalized muscle weakness, cramps, or aches.
- Bradycardia: Noticeably slower heart rate.
- Hoarseness: Changes in voice, including hoarseness.
Symptoms Indicative of Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)
- Unintended Weight Loss: Significant weight loss without changes in diet or exercise.
- Heat Intolerance: Feeling excessively hot or sweating more than usual.
- Nervousness and Anxiety: Increased feelings of nervousness, anxiety, or irritability.
- Tremors: Noticeable shaking or tremors in the hands or fingers.
- Palpitations: Rapid, pounding, or irregular heartbeat.
- Increased Appetite: Eating more than usual but still losing weight.
- Frequent Bowel Movements: Increased frequency of bowel movements or diarrhoea.
- Insomnia: Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Muscle Weakness: Especially in the upper arms and thighs, making routine tasks difficult.
- Exophthalmos: Bulging eyes, which can be a sign of Graves’ disease.
Additional Indications for Thyroid Blood Tests
- Goiter: Noticeable swelling or enlargement of the thyroid gland in the neck.
- Irregular Menstrual Cycles: Changes in menstrual cycle length, flow, or frequency.
Infertility: Difficulty conceiving without an obvious cause. - Family History: Having a family history of thyroid disease or autoimmune disorders.
- Resistant Hyperlipidemia: High cholesterol levels that do not respond to diet or medication.
- Skin Changes: Unusual changes in skin texture or color, such as myxedema in hypothyroidism.
- Eye Changes: Bulging eyes or vision changes, often seen in hyperthyroidism.
Situational Testing
- Pregnancy: Thyroid function is often monitored during pregnancy, especially if there are symptoms or a history of thyroid issues.
- Postpartum: Screening may be recommended after childbirth due to the risk of postpartum thyroiditis.
- Medication Monitoring: Regular thyroid function tests may be necessary for those taking medications that affect thyroid function (e.g., lithium, amiodarone).
- Radiation Exposure: Individuals who have undergone radiation therapy to the head or neck, which can affect thyroid health.
This comprehensive thyroid blood test provides valuable information about thyroid function, autoimmune thyroid disease, thyroid cancer, and iodine status. However, not all parameters may be necessary for every individual, and testing should be tailored to the patient’s clinical presentation and risk factors. Interpretation of results should be done in consultation with a healthcare provider experienced in thyroid disorders.
Thyroid ultrasound may be recommended to assess the size, structure, and abnormalities of the thyroid gland.
This test should be taken after any symptoms of short term illness have resolved.
If you are taking biotin supplements, stop taking them 72 hours before the test.
- Drink plenty of water about an hour before the appointment.
- Avoid coffee/tea/energy drinks.
*Turnaround time
The tests take time to be delivered, prepared and analysed, therefore the turnaround time varies from test-to-test