A Thyroid Test is a blood test which plays an important role in determining the hormone levels produced by the thyroid gland. This helps in the regulation of growth & development and metabolism. Thyroid Tests are significant in measuring the levels of T3, T4 and TSH hormones. Signals towards thyroid disorders can be detected under abnormal hormone levels such as hyperthyroidism (overproduction of hormones) or hypothyroidism (underproduction of hormones.
TSH, also known as Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone or Thyrotrophic, is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain. It plays a key role in regulating the thyroid gland’s function.
Functions-
A low TSH level shows hyperthyroidism or the overactive thyroid whereas a high TSH level signifies hypothyroidism or the underactive thyroid,
Also known as: Thyrotropic Hormone, Thyrotropin Test.
T3 and T4 are two primary hormones released by the thyroid gland, which is a butterfly- shaped structure located at the front of the neck. These hormones play an essential role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth and development and metabolism.
T3, a stronger active type of thyroid hormone, which directly influences the body’s tissues and cells to raise their metabolic rate. T3 thyroid test comprises of two tests, a Free T3 test and a Total T3 test.
Functions-
Also known as: Thyroid Function Test, Total Triiodothyroxine, Free Triiodothyroxine, FT3, TT3, Radioimmunoassay FT3.
T4, a primary storage form of thyroid hormone formed by the thyroid gland, works as a reservoir for T3.
The level of T4 thyroid hormone is measured with either a total T4 test or a free T4 test.
Functions-
It is essential that a proper balance is struck between T3 and T4 for thyroid to function optimally. Production of T3 and T4 is managed by the Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH), which is formed by the pituitary gland.
Doctor or physician may prescribe Thyroid test under the following conditions
If such indications are evident, it is suggested to consult the patient’s health provider for diagnosing and proper treatment and medications.
Mahajan Imaging & Labs centers are located at Defence Colony New Delhi, Safdarjung Developmental Area (SDA) New Delhi, Pusa Road Delhi, Gurugram Haryana, Bali Nagar Delhi. Home collection services are also available across Delhi/NCR.
A blood sample is required to perform the Thyroid test.
There may be a need for fasting before the tests. Apart from that, typically there are no specific requirements. The patient should inform their doctor regarding any specific medications, allergies, and pregnancy status (if pregnant)
Thyroid test at the patient’s home or at the nearest centre is possible by collecting the samples with home collection facility which allows to access thyroid test in an easy and convenient way.
Thyroid testing typically involves imaging studies or blood tests, which are conventionally safe. Though, slight discomfort and pain can occur at the needle site. Brushing and swelling can be there for few hours after testing.
A thyroid test is generally done by blood test that helps us to detect diseases that arises due to under or overflow of thyroid hormone. Diseases like Hashimoto (most common hypothyroidism) and Grave disease (most common hyperthyroidism). Thyroid test helps us checking the levels of TSH, under which T3 and T4 produces hormones. Thyroid levels are measure in (Mu/l), high level of TSH indicates that the person has Hypothyroidism which low level of TSH indicates Hyperthyroidism in a person.
Thyroid test measures the level of TSH, a high or low level does further indicate diseases like hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.