T3 & T4 Total
Understanding T3 & T4 Total
What is T3 & T4 Total?
T3 and T4 Total test, measures the amount of total (bound & free) thyroxine and Triiodothyronine, the primary hormones produced by the thyroid gland. T3 and T4 hormones are essential for growth and metabolism. The T3 and T4 Total test helps to diagnose any suspected thyroid disease and to check the treatment efficacy in people diagnosed with thyroid condition.
Higher than normal T3 and T4 levels could indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) and shows symptoms like excessive appetite, anxiety, heart palpitations, while decreased production of T3 and T4 hormone may be indicative of hypothyroidism which may cause symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, increased sensitivity to cold, and slow heart rate.
Note : On the day of test, those who are on thyroid medications, should take them in the same time and dosage as prescribed by the doctor.
It should not be held for the test.
What does T3 & T4 Total measure?
Contains 2 testsTriiodothyronine Total
A Triiodothyronine Total measures triiodothyronine, also known as T3, hormone that is produced by the thyroid gland. T3 hormone plays an important role in regulating the body's metabolism, energy levels, and growth & development. It exists in the blood in two forms: free T3 and bound T3. Free T3 is not bound to proteins in the blood and is the active form of T3. Whereas, bound T3 is bound to proteins, such as albumin and thyroid hormone binding globulin (THBG), which prevent it from entering the body tissues.
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Thyroxine - Total
A Thyroxine - Total measures both the bound and unbound/free form of thyroxine (T4) hormone in the blood. T4 exists in the blood in two forms: bound (attached to proteins) and free (not attached to proteins). Most of the T4 circulating in the blood is bound to proteins and only a small part is free. It is necessary to maintain a fine balance of these forms to ensure the proper functioning of the body.
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