About The Test
- FT3 (Free Triiodothyronine): Measures the unbound T3 hormone in the blood, which is available for use by the body’s tissues. It helps assess thyroid function and diagnose hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
- FT4 (Free Thyroxine): Measures the unbound T4 hormone in the blood. It provides a more accurate indication of thyroid function compared to total T4, as it is not influenced by proteins binding the hormone.
- TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): Often referred to as FTSH in some contexts, it is produced by the pituitary gland and regulates the production of T3 and T4 hormones by the thyroid. It is a primary test to evaluate overall thyroid function.
These tests are typically ordered together to provide a comprehensive assessment of thyroid health.