FREE TRIIODO THYRONINE-FREE T3
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60 mins collection
Not specified
Reports in
3 hrs
Measures
Amount of free triiodothyronine in the blood
Identifies
Levels of Triiodothyronine in the blood
About The Test
What Is the Free Triiodothyronine (Free T3) Test and Why Is It Important?
The test determines the free T3 level in the blood. Free T3 is produced in the thyroid gland and is required for growth, development, and maintaining metabolism and energy in the body. It helps identify disorders of the thyroid gland like hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, and it can help measure how effective the treatments are.
This test is done using radioimmunoassay (RIA) or chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA) technology. In these methods, the blood sample is combined with certain antibodies that attach to the free T3 in the blood. After the sample is processed, the amount of T3 bound to antibodies is counted. The results are then used to ascertain if the levels of free T3 is too high or too low.
What Does the Free T3 Test Measure?
The test quantifies the level of free triiodothyronine in the bloodstream. The Free T3 is the active form of the hormone – meaning it exists independently of any protein molecules in the blood. Therefore, it can freely move into cells.
When Is the Free T3 Test Usually Taken?
It is to determine:
- Disorders of the Thyroid gland like hyper and hypothyroidism.
- To assess the effectiveness of any hormonal replacement therapy.
- To assess the thyroid gland in symptomatic patients including weight changes, fatigue and hair fall.
Are There Any Risks or Limitations to the Free T3 Test?
Risks
- The procedure of taking samples of blood may lead to slight pain and bruises.
- Certain medications like Hormone replacement therapy would compromise the results of the test.
Limitation
- May not be able to provide an accurate assessment of thyroid disorders for patients with preexisting conditions like kidneys or liver issues.
- It might overlook some cases of slightly imbalanced thyroid activity.
List of Parameters
What Parameters Are Done for the Free T3 Test
Free T3 test involves looking at the following parameters:
- Free T3 levels: 2.3-4.2 pg/mL (depends on which laboratory performs the tests).
- Further medical treatment may be necessary for patients with kidney or liver problems, or who are on drugs.
Why This Test
Who Should Consider Taking the Free T3 Test?
The people that qualify for the Free T3 test include:
- Patients that have symptoms of thyroid disease like weight changes, hair loss, and fatigue.
- Patients that have a family history of thyroid problems.
- Patients that are undergoing thyroid hormone replacement therapy.
Benefits
Advantages of the Free T3 Test to Patient’s Health
The Free T3 test can:
- Provide a difference in the diagnosis of thyroid disorders which positions the patient for proper treatment.
- Determine the effectiveness of the thyroid hormone replacement therapy of the patient.
- Determine those with a possibility of developing thyroid disease.
What the Free T3 Test Can Diagnose.
The Free T3 test can identify:
- Hyperthyroidism (as seen with free T3 excess)
- Hypothyroidism (as seen with low free T3)
- Thyroid Cancers or Nodules (Free T3 abnormality)
Test Preparation
How to Get Ready for Your Free T3 Test
In preparation for the Free T3 test, the patient must:
- Refrain from eating for 8-12 hours prior to the test.
- Avoid taking any interfering medications for the duration of the fasting.
- Tell your doctor about any health issues and medications you take.
Prerequisites: none.
Eligibility: Anyone can get the test done, no matter what their age is.
Procedure for Taking the Test: A blood sample is collected from a vein in the arm.
Caution Before the Test: Share with your health provider if you have a bleeding condition or are on anticoagulant medication.
Test Results
Understanding the Outcomes of Your Free T3 Test
| Condition/Findings | Description | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Hyperthyroidism | Elevated free T3 levels (>4.2 pg/mL) | Indicates an overactive thyroid gland; may cause weight loss, anxiety, and palpitations |
| Hypothyroidism | Low free T3 levels (<2.3 pg/mL) | Indicates an underactive thyroid gland; may cause weight gain, fatigue, and cold intolerance |
| Normal | Free T3 levels within the normal range (2.3-4.2 pg/mL) | Indicates a healthy thyroid gland |
| Subclinical Hyperthyroidism | Slightly elevated free T3 levels (4.2-5.0 pg/mL) | May indicate an overactive thyroid gland, but without symptoms |
| Subclinical Hypothyroidism | Slightly low free T3 levels (2.0-2.3 pg/mL) | May indicate an underactive thyroid gland, but without symptoms |
FAQs
What are the associated dangers with undergoing the Free T3 test?
Generally safe but may be accompanied by discomfort or light bleeding around the perforated area.
Is the Free T3 test applicable during pregnancy?
Pregnancy does not prevent you from taking the test, but you must tell your doctor that you are pregnant.
When can I expect to receive results after test completion?
Generally, you should expect results to come in after 24-48 hours.
If the Free T3 level is not within the normal range, what could be the reason?
Free T3 level outside of the normal range could be suggestive of a thyroid problem. Your healthcare provider will go over the abnormalities with you and proceed to give advice on additional tests or treatments that you may need.