Compare - Thyroid Test (EW)

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Free T3, FT3, T3 Free

T3, Free

This test measures the amount of triiodothyronine, or T3, in the blood.

Also known as: Free T4, FT4, T4 Free

T4, Free

The free T4 test is not affected by protein levels. Since free T4 is the active form of thyroxine, the free T4 test is may be a more accurate reflection of thyroid hormone function.

Also known as: Anti-Thyroid Microsomal Antibody, Anti-TPO, Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies TPO, TPO

Thyroid Peroxidase

Also known as: Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH), Thyrotropin

TSH

A TSH test is a lab test that measures the amount of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland. It tells the thyroid gland to make and release thyroid hormones into the blood.

TSH

*Important Information on Lab Test Processing Times: Ulta Lab Tests is committed to informing you about the processing times for your lab tests processed through Quest Diagnostics. Please note that the estimated processing time for each test, indicated in business days, is based on data from the past 30 days across the 13 Quest Diagnostics laboratories for each test. These estimates are intended to serve as a guide and are not guarantees. Factors such as laboratory workload, weather conditions, holidays, and the need for additional testing or maintenance can influence actual processing times. We aim to offer estimates to help you plan accordingly. Please understand that these times may vary, and processing times are not guaranteed. Thank you for choosing Ulta Lab Tests for your laboratory needs.

The Compare - Thyroid Test (EW) panel contains 4 tests with 5 biomarkers.

Why pay $149 for Everlywell's Thyroid finger prick test kit when you can experience the convenience and affordablity of a Thyroid lab test with Ulta Lab Tests - compare now and save!

Brief Description: The Thyroid Lab Test is a panel of blood tests designed to assess the functioning of the thyroid gland, a vital endocrine organ responsible for regulating metabolism, energy production, and various physiological processes. This comprehensive panel includes measurements of thyroid hormones and antibodies that can provide valuable insights into thyroid health.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: Specifc to TSH: Specimen collection after fluorescein dye angiography should be delayed for at least 3 days. For patients on hemodialysis, specimen collection should be delayed for 2 weeks.

According to the assay manufacturer Siemens: "Samples containing fluorescein can produce falsely depressed values when tested with the Advia Centaur TSH3 Ultra assay."

When and Why the Thyroid Lab Test May Be Ordered

Timing of the Test: The Thyroid Lab Test may be ordered when healthcare providers suspect thyroid dysfunction based on clinical symptoms or risk factors.

Reasons for Ordering the Test:

  1. Symptoms of Thyroid Dysfunction: Individuals with symptoms suggestive of thyroid disorders, such as fatigue, weight changes, mood swings, temperature sensitivity, and changes in skin and hair condition, may undergo this test to identify thyroid-related issues.

  2. Monitoring Thyroid Conditions: For individuals already diagnosed with thyroid disorders (e.g., hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism), this test helps monitor hormone levels and treatment effectiveness.

  3. Family History: A family history of thyroid disorders can increase the risk, prompting healthcare providers to order the test for early detection.

What the Thyroid Lab Test Checks For

The Thyroid Lab Test assesses the following markers:

  1. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH): TSH is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates thyroid hormone production. Elevated TSH levels may indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low levels may suggest an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

  2. Free T3 (Triiodothyronine): Free T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone. It plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and energy production.

  3. Free T4 (Thyroxine): Free T4 is another thyroid hormone that influences metabolic processes, body temperature, and growth.

  4. Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO antibodies): The presence of TPO antibodies indicates an autoimmune thyroid condition, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Elevated TPO antibodies can lead to thyroid inflammation and dysfunction.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results of the Thyroid Lab Test

Healthcare providers use the results of the Thyroid Lab Test to:

  1. Diagnose Thyroid Disorders: Abnormal levels of TSH, Free T3, and Free T4 can help diagnose hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or other thyroid-related conditions.

  2. Determine the Cause: The test can reveal whether a thyroid disorder is due to autoimmune factors, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis (elevated TPO antibodies) or Graves' disease (elevated TSH receptor antibodies).

  3. Adjust Medication: For individuals with diagnosed thyroid disorders, the results guide healthcare providers in adjusting medication dosages to achieve optimal thyroid hormone levels.

  4. Monitor Treatment: The Thyroid Lab Test is essential for monitoring the effectiveness of thyroid medications and ensuring that hormone levels remain within the target range.

  5. Identify Complications: Early detection of thyroid dysfunction can help prevent complications such as cardiovascular issues, metabolic disturbances, and reproductive problems associated with untreated thyroid disorders.

In summary, the Thyroid Lab Test is a valuable tool for assessing thyroid function and diagnosing thyroid disorders. It provides information on hormone levels and autoimmune factors, enabling healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding treatment and management of thyroid-related conditions.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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