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T3 & T4 Total

Also known as Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) test
T3 & T4 Total Includes 2 testsView All
320330 3% Off
You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
  1. Do not stop taking your thyroid medications on the day of the test unless otherwise advised by the doctor.

Understanding T3 & T4 Total


What is T3 & T4 Total?

The T3 & T4 Total test measures the amount of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) hormones in the blood. This test helps evaluate the functioning of the thyroid gland and detect possible thyroid disorders, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. 

The thyroid hormones Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) are vital for controlling various physiological functions, including metabolism, growth, and energy expenditure. T3, (the active form) directly impacts various metabolic activities and helps control the body’s energy expenditure, while T4 acts as a precursor that is converted into T3 as needed. Both hormones are fundamental in sustaining the body’s metabolic rate, supporting cardiovascular health, aiding digestion, and facilitating muscle development. 

The T3 & T4 Total measures the total level (both free and bound forms) of the T3 and T4 hormones. T3, T4 levels can be influenced by various physiological factors, including age, pregnancy, body temperature, stress, nutritional status, exercise, circadian rhythms, and illness. Total T3 and T4  levels are also affected by changes in thyroxine binding globulin (TBG), the main transport protein for thyroid hormones. Pregnancy and estrogen therapy can elevate TBG levels (high total T3 and T4) while hyperandrogenism can lower TBG levels, (low total T3, T4) in absence of thyroid dysfunction. In such cases, levels of free T4, free T3 may be advised.

The T3 & T4 Total test is used to assess how well your thyroid gland is working and aid in the diagnosis and management of thyroid disorders, such as an overactive thyroid gland (hyperthyroidism) or an underactive thyroid gland (hypothyroidism). Your doctor may advise this test if you show any symptoms suggestive of hyperthyroidism, such as weight loss, nervousness, irritability, increased sweating, and rapid heartbeat, or hypothyroidism, such as weight gain, fatigue, sensitivity to cold, constipation, and dry skin. It is also important for pregnant women to have healthy amounts of thyroid hormones to ensure the healthy development of their babies. 

Fasting is not required for the T3 & T4 Total. Maintain the continuity of taking your thyroid medications on the day of the test unless otherwise advised by the doctor.

Test result ranges can vary slightly between labs due to differences in testing methods and reference intervals. Abnormal test results require expert interpretation; therefore, do not self-medicate at home solely based on these results and consult your doctor for proper understanding of the test results. Based on the results, your doctor will assess your medical condition, suggest lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, and decide if medication is needed to manage your condition.

What is T3 & T4 Total used for?

The T3 & T4 Total test is done: 

  • To measure the levels of total T3 and T4 hormones in the body.
  • As part of a thyroid profile total along with the TSH test.
  • To evaluate symptoms suggestive of an imbalance in thyroid hormone levels, such as fatigue, weight changes, hair loss, and changes in heart rate.
  • To diagnose and monitor the treatment for hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.
  • To detect an underactive thyroid gland in newborn babies.
  • To evaluate other disorders, such as thyroid nodules, goiters, and pituitary or hypothalamus gland disorders.

What does T3 & T4 Total measure?

Contains 2 tests

The T3 & T4 Total test measures the levels of two key thyroid hormones in the blood: Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4). These hormones are produced by the thyroid gland and play a crucial role in regulating the body’s metabolism, energy levels, and overall growth. Measurement of these hormones provides insights into thyroid gland activity and helps diagnose conditions such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid). Together, these hormone tests provide a comprehensive evaluation of thyroid health, aiding in early detection, treatment planning, and ongoing management of thyroid disorders.

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Triiodothyronine Total

The Triiodothyronine Total test 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

The Thyroxine - Total test 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.

Know more about Thyroxine - Total

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about T3 & T4 Total


Frequently Asked Questions about T3 & T4 Total

Q. What is the T3 & T4 Total test?

The T3 & T4 Total test measures the levels of Triiodothyronine (T3) and Thyroxine (T4) hormones in your blood. These hormones are produced by the thyroid gland and are crucial for regulating metabolism, growth, and energy levels in the body.

Q. Why is the T3 & T4 Total test done?

The T3 & T4 Total test is done to check for hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism when you show symptoms like weight gain/loss, fatigue, dry skin, hair thinning, slow heart rate, muscle weakness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, or frequent bowel movement.

Q. Can I take the T3 & T4 Total test during pregnancy?

Yes, you can take the T3 and T4 total test during pregnancy. This test is usually recommended along with some other tests during pregnancy to measure the levels of thyroid hormones as their deranged levels can complicate pregnancy.

Q. Is fasting required for the total T3 and total T4 test?

No, fasting is not needed before taking this test. However, Maintain the continuity of taking your thyroid medications on the day of the test unless otherwise advised by the doctor.

Q. How often should I get the T3 & T4 Total test?

The frequency of testing depends on your specific health condition. If you are being treated for a thyroid disorder, your doctor will decide how often you should have these tests based on your treatment progress and symptoms.

Q. What happens when T3 and T4 levels are high?

High T3 and T4 levels can lead to a condition called hyperthyroidism in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormones. Some of the common causes of hyperthyroidism include nodular goiter and thyroiditis.

Q. What happens when T3 and T4 levels are low?

Low T3 and T4 levels can lead to a condition called hypothyroidism in which the thyroid gland produces less T3 & T4 hormones. Some of the common symptoms of hypothyroidism are fatigue and weakness, weight gain, cold intolerance, and constipation.

Q. What factors can affect the results of T3 and T4 total test?

Certain medications like methadone, birth control pills, or steroids can affect your free T3 levels. Similarly, phenobarbital, amiodarone, or diclofenac can have an impact on your free T4 levels. Besides this, severe cases of chronic ailments, such as liver cirrhosis or chronic kidney failure, can also affect your FT3 and FT4 test results.

Q. Can my T3 & T4 Total test show variable results?

Yes, Total T3 & T4 concentrations are also altered by changes in thyroid binding protein levels. In such cases, levels of free T4, free T3 may be advised.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.
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T3 & T4 Total test price for other cities


Price inPuneRs. 330
Price inBangaloreRs. 330
Price inMumbaiRs. 330
Price inNew DelhiRs. 320
Price inHyderabadRs. 330
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References

  1. Thyroid Function Tests [Internet]. Alexandria, VA: American Thyroid Association; [Accessed 20 Aug. 2024]. Available from: https://www.thyroid.org/thyroid-function-tests/External Link
  2. Free and Bound Triiodothyronine (Blood) [Internet]. NY: University of Rochester Medical Center; [Accessed 20 Aug. 2024]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=167&ContentID=t3_free_and_bound_bloodExternal Link
  3. Welsh KJ, Soldin SJ. Diagnosis of endocrine disease: How reliable are free thyroid and total T3 hormone assays?. Eur J Endocrinol. 2016 Dec;175(6):R255-R263. [Accessed 20 Aug. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5113291/External Link
  4. Block-Galarza J. Thyroid Function Tests [Internet]. Alexandria, VA: American Thyroid Association. [Accessed 20 Aug. 2024]. Available from: https://www.thyroid.org/patient-thyroid-information/ct-for-patients/december-2018/vol-11-issue-12-p-3-4/#:~:text=Most%20commonly%2C%20biotin%20use%20can,hormone%20dose%20is%20too%20highExternal Link
  5. Thyroid Tests [Internet]. NIDDK; May 2017 [Accessed 20 Aug. 2024]. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/diagnostic-tests/thyroidExternal Link
  6. Adhimoolam M, Arulmozhi R. Effect of antiepileptic drug therapy on thyroid hormones among adult epileptic patients: An analytical cross-sectional study. J Res Pharm Pract. 2016 Jul-Sep;5(3):171-4. [Accessed 20 Aug. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4966235/External Link
  7. Dong BJ. How medications affect thyroid function. West J Med. 2000 Feb;172(2):102-6. [Accessed 20 Aug. 2024]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1070767/External Link
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