FREE THYROID PROFILE (FT3, FT4, TSH)

A Thyroid Profile test is a group of tests that helps evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland and diagnose Thyroid disorders. These tests measure the levels of Thyroid hormones such as T3, T4, and TSH in the blood. T3 and T4 are highly protein-bound hormones and can be affected by numerous factors like illness, medications, and genetic factors that influence protein binding. Therefore, it is useful to measure the free or unbound hormone levels, which correspond to the biologically available hormone pool. In primary hypothyroidism, thyrotropin (TSH) levels will be elevated. In primary hyperthyroidism, TSH levels will be low. The ability to quantify circulating levels of TSH is important in evaluating thyroid function. It is especially useful in the differential diagnosis of primary (thyroid) from secondary (pituitary) and tertiary (hypothalamus) hypothyroidism. In primary hypothyroidism, TSH levels are significantly elevated, while in secondary and tertiary hypothyroidism, TSH levels are low or normal. Elevated or low TSH in the context of normal free thyroxine is often referred to as subclinical hypo- or hyperthyroidism, respectively.

Free Thyroid Profile is advised to for following analysis:

• Screening: Even before symptoms appear, the Free Thyroid Profile is used to screen people for thyroid dysfunction. For those at greatest risk like older adults, pregnant women, and people with a family history of thyroid disease, routine screening becomes very crucial.
• Diagnosis: This profile 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-related disorders such as hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, or other conditions.
• Monitoring: The Thyroid Profile 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: The Thyroid Profile 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.

If you have following symptoms, then Free Thyroid Profile is advised:

For Hypothyroidism:

• Slower-than-usual heart rate
• Fatigue
• Increased sensitivity to cold
• Unexplained weight gain
• Dry skin 
• Dry and coarse hair
• Depression
• Heavy menstrual bleeding

For Hyperthyroidism:

• Faster-than-usual heart rate
• Difficulty in sleeping
• Unexplained weight loss
• Increased sensitivity to heat
• Clammy or sweaty skin
• Anxiety
• Irritability 
• Nervousness
• Irregular menstrual cycles or a lack of periods 

• Unless otherwise directed by your doctor, there is no need for you to make any special preparations before the free thyroid profile. 
• Other blood tests can be carried out in addition to a free thyroid profile. 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 Price of a Free Thyroid profile test is Rs. 750. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with this thyroid test
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient

• 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.
• Free T4 (Thyroxine): The main hormone that the thyroid gland produces is T4, which the body then transforms into T3. Free T4 levels are essential for tracking thyroid hormone replacement treatment and for the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.
• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): TSH controls how much T3 and T4 the thyroid gland produces. TSH is an essential marker for the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid disorders because elevated or decreased levels correspond to an underactive or overactive thyroid, respectively.

Normal Thyroid Panel may show normal total hormone levels even if free Hormone levels are abnormal, particularly in situations affecting Protein binding.

Free Thyroid Profile analyzes the levels of only the unbound (Free) Hormones, FT3 and FT4, which are biologically active and directly available for use by the body’s cells. It gives an accurate depiction of Thyroid function, particularly when there may be changes in protein binding. Because FT3 and FT4 levels measure the levels of active hormones which are more accurate markers of thyroid function.

The results for each specific Thyroid Hormone will be listed in your results. It might also say whether your results in each category are normal or abnormal by comparing it with reference ranges for standard values.

Following is the reference range:

Thyroid Hormone	Normal Value
TSH	0.5 to 5.0 mIU/L
Free T4	0.7 to 1.9 ng/dL in adults.
Free T3	2.3-4.1 pg/mL.

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 Hypothyroidism

The Blood Sample for Free Thyroid profile 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 thyroid profile” 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 thyroid profile in Jaipur. 
• Check out.