Thyroxine Binding Globulin

(TBG)

₹6159~~₹7699~~ 20% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

No special preparation is required.

Understanding Thyroxine Binding Globulin

What is Thyroxine Binding Globulin?

TBG (Thyroxine Binding Globulin ) test measures the levels of TBG, one of the major transport proteins, which are primarily responsible for binding to and transporting thyroid hormones to the necessary tissues. TBG aids in assessing thyroid problems such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism and also helps monitor ongoing treatment in patients with thyroid disorders. The T3 (Triiodothyronine) and T4 (Thyroxine) hormones bind to TBG protein. TBG has a greater affinity to thyroxine (T4). Abnormalities in the functionality and amount of TBG can cause variations in the total T4, but not in the amount of FreeT4. Since the amount of circulating free T4 remains the same, deficiency in TBG often does not lead to adverse metabolic effects seen in an individual with abnormal thyroid hormone levels. However, it can cause errors in the interpretation of thyroid hormones, which can lead to inappropriate treatment. The measurement of TBG can be used to establish the presence of TBG deficiency or excess suggested by abnormal Total serum T4 and T3 concentrations in the presence of normal free levels of these hormones.

What is Thyroxine Binding Globulin used for?

To diagnose hypothyroidism (low levels of thyroid)
To diagnose hyperthyroidism (high levels of thyroid)
To monitor treatment in patients with thyroid disease

Interpreting Thyroxine Binding Globulin results

Interpretations

High levels may indicate:

Liver disease
Acute intermittent porphyria
Hypothyroidism

Low levels may indicate:

Acromegaly
Acute illness
Hyperthyroidism
Malnutrition
Nephrotic Syndrome

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Thyroxine Binding Globulin

Frequently Asked Questions about Thyroxine Binding Globulin

Q. What additional tests can be performed in case the TBG results are not in the normal range?

If the TBG test results are not in the normal range, your doctor may ask for the following tests: Thyroid profile Free Anti Thyroperoxidase Antibody

Q. Can medicines have any effect on the levels of TBG test?

Yes, certain medicines such as prednisone, phenothiazines, dilantin, depakene, depakote, drugs such as opioids and opiates or hormonal therapy such as estrogen therapy can affect the levels of TBG.

Q. What is Hyperthyroidism?

Hyperthyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive and there is an increased production of thyroid hormones by the thyroid gland. Causes of Hyperthyroidism include Graves’ disease, multinodular goiter, thyroid nodules, toxic adenoma, inflammation of the thyroid, eating too much iodine, and too much synthetic thyroid hormone. Diagnosis of this condition can help to relieve the symptoms and prevent long-term complications.

Q. What is Hypothyroidism?

Hypothyroidism, also called underactive thyroid or low thyroid is a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormones. It can be commonly caused by intake of low iodine diet or Hashimoto's thyroiditis (an autoimmune disease). Less common causes include previous treatment with radioactive iodine, injury to the pituitary gland which secretes TSH, intake of certain medicines, previous thyroid surgery, or a lack of a functioning thyroid gland at birth.

Q. Is there any risk associated with this test?

There is no risk associated with the test. However, since this test involves a needle prick to withdraw the blood sample, in very rare cases, a patient may experience increased bleeding, hematoma formation (blood collection under the skin), bruising or infection at the site of needle prick.

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