Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs)

[tsh-sb123]

Thyroid Function Tests:

Thyroid function tests (TFTs) are a combination of or group of tests required to determine the thyroid gland function. The following tests are done to check whether the patient has thyroid disease:

TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone or thyrotropin)– This test is conducted to check hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and also is checked to monitor the thyroid replacement therapy

T4 or free T4 (thyroxine)– This test is conducted to check hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism

T3 or free T3 (triiodothyronine)– This test is conducted to check hyperthyroidism

[Mike]

T3 or free T3 (triiodothyronine)– This test is conducted to check hyperthyroidism

T3 & T4 tests are no good so most doctors now order for Free T3 (FT3) and Free T4 (FT4).

You need FT3 in hypothyroidism as well as T3 is an active hormone and low number mean you lack energy and metabolism and growth will be slow

[alice]

T3 or free T3 (triiodothyronine)– This test is conducted to check hyperthyroidism

T3 & T4 tests are no good so most doctors now order for Free T3 (FT3) and Free T4 (FT4).

You need FT3 in hypothyroidism as well as T3 is an active hormone and low number mean you lack energy and metabolism and growth will be slow

Yes, thats correct! Free hormone levels are the preferred method of detecting the underlying thyroid pathology these days. The reason behind this is, the active form of hormone that produces effects in our body is the free form. The other form, also know the bound form is attached to a protein named "thyroid binding globulin", and serves as a reserve or storage form.

Moreover, among the free hormones "physiologically active form" is T3. Therefore, this forms the basis of most commonly tested thyroid hormone.