FREE T3 (FREE TRI-IODOTHYRONINE)

Normally Triiodothyronine (T3) circulates tightly bound to Thyroxine-binding globulin and albumin. Only 0.3% of the total T3 is unbound (free); the free fraction is the active form. In hyperthyroidism, both thyroxine (Tetraiodothyronine; thyroxine: T4) and T3 levels (total and free) are usually elevated, but in a small subset of hyperthyroid patients (T3 toxicosis) only T3 is elevated. FT3 levels may be required to evaluate clinically euthyroid patients who have an altered distribution of binding proteins (eg, pregnancy, dysalbuminemic). Elevated free triiodothyronine (FT3) values are associated with thyrotoxicosis or excess thyroid hormone replacement. Ref. Value: > or =1 year: 2.8-4.4 pg/mL.

Free T3 Test is advised to for following analysis:

• Diagnosis: This test is essential for determining the underlying cause of thyroid imbalance symptoms like mood swings, weight fluctuations, and fatigue. It assists in determining whether the symptoms are caused by thyroid disorders (such as an overactive or underactive thyroid gland) and pituitary gland disorders. It also helps in assessing the severity of thyroid problems. It can also help diagnose abnormalities of the proteins that bind thyroid hormones.
• Monitoring: The test is used to track the disease's advancement and treatment efficacy following a thyroid diagnosis. Frequent monitoring ensures that thyroid hormone levels stay within the desired range, enabling prompt therapy modifications.
• Assessing the Impact of Medical Conditions and Treatments: This test can also be used to evaluate the impact of other medical conditions or treatments on thyroid function, such as pregnancy or specific medications. This supports the maintenance of optimal thyroid health through informed decision-making. It is also used to determine whether thyroid replacement therapy is effective. 

If you have following symptoms, then Free T3 Test is advised:

• Weight changes, generally weight loss
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Frequent bowel movements
• Increased appetite
• Menstrual irregularities
• Increased sweating
• Heart palpitations
• Insomnia
• Nervousness 
• Anxiety
• Problems with concentration

• Free T3 (Triiodothyronine): The most active Thyroid Hormone, T3, is essential for controlling body temperature, Heart rate, and metabolism. Free T3 level measurement aids in the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism and evaluation of the extent of thyroid dysfunction.

Normal Free T3 levels in the body are 2.3-4.2 pg/mL. 

Following are the interpretations that can be made comparing free T3 test results with other Thyroid Hormone results:

TSH	Free T4	Total or Free T3	Thyroid Function
Normal	Normal	Normal	Normal Thyroid Function
Normal	Normal or Low	Normal or Low	Normal Thyroid Function
Normal	Low	Normal or High	Normal Thyroid Function
High	Low	Normal or Low	Primary Hypothyroidism
High	Normal	Normal	Subclinical Hypothyroidism
Low	High or Normal	High	Hyperthyroidism
Low	Normal	Normal	Subclinical Hyperthyroidism

• Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the Free T3 Test. 
• Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to a Free T3 Test. If your doctor advises you to have multiple tests at once, they may ask you to fast for a specific period of time prior to a blood test.
• Drink adequate water before sample collection.
• Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
• Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.

The Blood Sample for Free T3 Test is taken in following steps:

• The area where the needle will be inserted to take your blood is cleaned with an antiseptic alcohol wipe. The hollow on the inside side of the elbow or the tip of the finger are the most common sites for this.
• A tourniquet or a band is tied around your upper arm to facilitate the access to the vein in your arm.
• A needle is used to puncture your vein. The blood sample is collected into a test tube attached to the needle. The needle may cause a small pinch or sting when it is inserted.
• Once the vial or test tube is filled, the blood sample collection for the test is finished and the needle is taken out.
• Finger pressure is applied on the puncture site to stop the bleeding and the band aid is applied at the site.

• Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
• Go to the “Book a test” tab.
• Select the “Lab Test” tab.
• Type “Free T3 Test” in the search bar.
• Click on the test.
• The test page with all the test details will show up.
• Click on “Book Now”.
• Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
• Now enter your details. 
• Select date & time for booking a Free T3 Test in Jaipur. 

The Price of a Free T3 Test is Rs. 325. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with this Thyroid test for free T3
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient