Thyroid Profile Test (T3, T4, UTSH) / TFT

The human body powers itself through metabolism. Metabolism is the process of food being converted into energy and is measured as BMR or Basal Metabolism Rate. The value of BMR is directly influenced by the thyroid hormone. The thyroid gland secretes the thyroid hormones, which play an essential role in the body’s metabolism, growth, and development.

The thyroid profile test measures three parameters from blood, namely, Total T3,  Total T4, and Serum TSH levels. T3 or triiodothyronine is one of the hormones secreted by the thyroid gland. T4, properly known as tetraiodothyronine, is another hormone secreted by the gland. Both these hormones together regulate the body’s metabolism and growth.

The test also measures TSH or Thyroid Stimulating Hormone. TSH is a direct marker of the thyroid gland’s functioning. If it is functioning poorly, then the stimulating hormone will be on the higher side and vice-versa. The TSH hormone is secreted by the pituitary gland situated in the brain. It controls the secretions of the thyroid gland.

Symptoms indicating improper metabolism and abnormal development of the human body calls for a thyroid profile test. Improper metabolism can mean both high and low metabolism. Other symptoms such as hair loss, dry skin, unexplained weight gain or loss mood swings, muscle cramps, lassitude, depression or anxiety, menstrual irregularities and stunted growth in children would point to poor functioning of the thyroid gland. The thyroid profile test helps with the diagnosis of abnormal function of the thyroid gland.

A thyroid profile test is also prescribed if there is a visible lump on the outer surface of a person's throat which can be noticed to move during the process of swallowing. This condition could be due to goitre. The results of the thyroid profile test can determine if the person is suffering from hypothyroidism(underactive thyroid), hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or any other disease related to the thyroid gland.

Thyroid disorders are endemic to certain parts of India where the naturally available iodine is poor. If there is less iodine intake in the diet, then goitre or hyperthyroidism can occur. This deficiency is common in the sub-Himalayan region. Certain parts of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Gujarat are known to have large numbers of goitre cases. Also, there is a higher susceptibility of a thyroid disorder in females and people suffering from any other autoimmune disorder. It is an important test during and before pregnancy, as abnormal thyroid function can affect the growth of the foetus.

The results of a thyroid profile test are based on the analysis of a blood sample. All three tests under the thyroid profile test are carried out with a single sample.

Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid), hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)

The thyroid profile test measures the levels of three hormones - T3, T4 and TSH.

 Some disease conditions for which a Thyroid Profile Test can be prescribed are:

• Goitre
• PCOS (and other menstrual irregularities)
• During pregnancy
• Obesity
• Hereditary history of Thyroid Disorders
• Autoimmune disorders
• Diabetes

Improper functioning of the thyroid gland is indicated if a person is experiencing the following conditions:

• Unexplained weight loss or weight gain
• Lack of energy
• Constipation or diarrhoea
• Feeling too cold or too hot
• Not able to put on weight with a healthy diet
• Hair fall, thinning of hair, easy breaking of hair
• Swelling in the neck region
• Lassitude, lack of energy
• Cramps in the wrist and legs
• Increase in weight
• Anxiety, mood swings
• Fast heartbeat
• Irregular menstrual periods

For people with such complaints, amongst other tests, the thyroid profile test is prescribed by the consulting physician.

Following a diagnosis, once the treatment for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism is initiated by an M.D. physician or endocrinologist, the thyroid profile test may be prescribed every 6 months to monitor and regulate the dosage. The results of the thyroid profile test may help your doctor to continue the same treatment or modify the dosage of ongoing medicines.

 The thyroid profile test is applicable for males and females, both adults and children. Some medications like steroids, opioid painkillers and biotin may falsely give lower TSH levels. Tell your doctor about all the ongoing medications.

A random thyroid profile test helps with the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or other conditions. If the result of the thyroid profile test confirms a diagnosis, appropriate medication should be taken. The test has to be repeated every three months, at a minimum, when a person is on medication for a thyroid disorder to evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatment. The test can be annual only if not on any medication or if the previous thyroid profile test results were normal.

Before the Test

Typically, preparation for a thyroid profile test does not necessitate any special arrangements. If you are undergoing this test in conjunction with another one, your healthcare provider might advise you to abstain from consuming certain food items. It is always recommended to consult with your doctor prior to the test for optimal results.

During the Test

The blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm. Here’s what you can expect during the test:

• The area where the needle will be inserted will be cleansed with an antiseptic.
• A tourniquet band will be fastened around your arm to enhance the visibility of the veins.
• A needle will be inserted into the vein to draw the blood. This process is likely to take a few seconds and during this time, you might feel a brief pinch.
• The blood will be collected in a vial or a small test tube labelled with your details.

After the Test

Once the blood has been collected:

• A bandage will be applied to the puncture site to halt the bleeding.
• Mild bruising is common. But if you're feeling lightheaded, you may be advised to sit for a few minutes.
• Contact your healthcare provider if you experience bleeding, pain, or rashes at the puncture site.

The thyroid profile test includes the following parameters:

• The range or value of total T3 hormone in the blood.
• The quantity of total  T4 hormone in the blood.
• The value of TSH or the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone in the blood.

These are the only three parameters covered under this test. These values give an idea about the functioning of the thyroid gland and if its improper functioning is affecting other hormones. The result of the thyroid profile test is not expressed as positive or negative. If the value is on the higher side or lower side, it is an indicator of a disorder with the thyroid gland.

This test cannot evaluate the changes at the organ level or changes in the body due to the functioning of the thyroid gland.

TSH levels can go higher in women during pregnancy.

Thyroid hormone levels are marginally lower in children, especially infants.

There may be a minimal difference for the normal values between males and females, but the range remains constant.

The normal values and reference ranges of the test may vary from lab to lab. Please refer to the ranges mentioned in the report and consult a doctor to understand the interpretation of lab reports.

The main component of the thyroid profile test is the TSH. If the TSH value is higher than the normal range, it means the thyroid gland is not functioning optimally. A higher TSH reading would point to the functioning of the pituitary gland, which stimulates the thyroid gland to perform better. This interpretation of the thyroid profile test means the thyroid gland is working at a lower level than it should be. The interpretation here could be towards hypothyroidism or Hashimoto’s Thyroiditis, overcorrected hyperthyroidism or undertreated hypothyroidism (in patients already diagnosed and receiving treatment).

If the TSH value is on the lower side or lower than normal, it means the thyroid gland is working overtime. This phenomenon could be a sign of hyperthyroidism or Grave’s disease, overcorrected hypothyroidism or undertreated hyperthyroidism ( for patients already diagnosed and under treatment).

An increase in the levels of T3 and T4 hormones shown as a result of the thyroid profile test would indicate increased activity of the thyroid gland.

In case the values of the TSH and T3 and T4 in the thyroid profile test results are deranged severely, it warrants further investigation for other underlying conditions. These underlying conditions could be auto-immune disorders or a tumour on the thyroid gland.

The price of a Thyroid Profile Test (TFT) can fluctuate based on the location and chosen laboratory. Generally, the cost of a TFT falls within the range of INR 339 to 769. Let's take a look at the average cost of a TFT in some major cities in India: