Thyroid Panel-3 (Reflex)
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Thyroid gland is an endocrine gland that produces thyroid hormones which carry out various energy related functions in the body. Normal production of these hormones is of utmost importance for the smooth functioning of the body. TSH or thyroid stimulating hormone signals the thyroid gland to produce the thyroid hormones. T3 and T4 are the thyroid hormones produced by these glands. Thyroid panel-3 is a comprehensive test that measures the functioning of the thyroid gland using the FT4 levels when the TSH levels are abnormal (Reflex testing)
The thyroid gland is an endocrine organ which produces vital hormones necessary for growth, metabolism, sleep, and sexual function. It is also responsible for your mood. Hormones, produced by the thyroid gland include triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4), which are released in response to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), produced by the pituitary gland. TSH is what tells your thyroid gland to make more or less of T3 and T4. When insufficient TSH hormone is produced by the body, it indicates hyperthyroidism and when too much TSH is produced it indicates hypothyroidism. The interplay between T3, T4 and TSH is complex and varies between individuals. Thus, monitoring the levels of all three helps your doctor understand your thyroid function better. Here is all you need to know about the Thyroid Panel-3 (Reflex) test
What is the Thyroid Panel-3 (Reflex) test?
When a patient’s TSH levels appear abnormal, a Thyroid Panel-3 reflex test is employed which further checks for free T4 (FT4) and free T3 (FT3) levels. Such a comprehensive test enables accurate measurement of thyroid gland activity. The results of these tests can help to diagnose or rule out hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
Price : ₹ 420
The profile is mainly used to test the thyroid gland functioning. The most common scenarios where testing is carried out include:
- Cases of suspected hypothyroidism which may present as fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, weight gain, muscle weakness, puffy face.
- Cases of suspected hyperthyroidism which may present as unintentional weight loss, rapid heart rate, arrhythmia, palpitation, increase appetite, nervousness, irritability.
- For monitoring the status in thyroid patients to understand the treatment effectiveness.
The Thyroid Panel-3 (Reflex) test is often utilized to evaluate the working of the thyroid gland. It is especially used when suspecting hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which may be evidenced through symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain/loss, sensitivity to cold/heat, muscle weakness, rapid heart rate and more. Furthermore, this profile can be used to track the progress of treatment among those already diagnosed with a thyroid condition. The test measures three hormones: FT4, FT3, and TSH.
Thyroid panel 3 test measures Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4) and free triiodothyronine (FT3) levels in the blood. TSH results are the starting point of the diagnostic algorithm, the results show diurnal variation (test should be done at the same time of the day during follow-ups). FT4 is the second part of the algorithm and is evaluated if results of TSH are abnormal. FT3 estimations are useful in some cases where T4 is normal.
Thyroid panel 3 test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.
Results of TSH in combination of T4 are often used to diagnose primary and secondary causes of hypo & hyperthyroidism.
TSH high: T4 low (primary hypothyroidism), T4 high (secondary hyperthyroidism)
TSH low: T4 low (secondary hypothyroidism), T4 high (primary hyperthyroidism)
The test may require you to fast for 12-14 hours. Your doctor may ask you to stop taking your medications before the test. Please consult your doctor for more details
