Top 6 Thyroid Tests

DR. IZABELLA WENTZ / FEBRUARY 3, 2015

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Many cases of thyroid problems are missed because most doctors don’t perform a comprehensive test panel. I spent almost a decade suffering from debilitating fatigue because I only had my TSH tested. If you suspect that you may have thyroid disease or know someone who may be, here’s a list of tests to take to your doctor. (Click here for a list of practitioners to work with that believe in root cause approach.)

Top 6 Thyroid Tests

Here is a comprehensive list of the Top 6 thyroid tests take to your doctor and can ask for tests for Hashimoto’s and hypothyroidism. Be sure to request a copy of your thyroid labs so that you can see them yourself and ensure that they are interpreted correctly.

1. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
2. Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Antibodies)
3. Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TG Antibodies)
4. Thyroid Ultrasound
5. Free T3
6. Free T4

You can order the entire panel (excluding the thyroid ultrasound) here.

Glossary

TSH – This is a pituitary hormone that responds to low/high amounts of circulating thyroid hormone. In advanced cases of Hashimoto’s and primary hypothyroidism, this lab test will be elevated, (read the post about interpreting your TSH test). In the case of Graves’ disease, the TSH will be low. People with Hashimoto’s and central hypothyroidism may have a normal reading on this test.

Thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO Antibodies) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TG Antibodies) – Most people with Hashimoto’s will have an elevation of one or both of these antibodies. These antibodies are often elevated for decades before a change in TSH is seen. People with Graves’ disease and thyroid cancer may also have an elevation in thyroid antibodies including TPO & TG, as well as TSH receptor antibodies.

Thyroid Ultrasound – A small percentage of people may have Hashimoto’s, but may not have thyroid antibodies detectable in the blood. Doing a thyroid ultrasound will help your physician determine a diagnosis.

Free T3 & Free T4 – These tests measure the levels of active thyroid hormone circulating in the body. When these levels are low, but your TSH tests in the normal range, this may lead your physician to suspect a rare type of hypothyroidism, known as central hypothyroidism.

If your doctor will not order these tests for you, you can pay out of pocket and order them yourself through a company like Ulta Labs. To view the discounted thyroid panel I’ve set up with Ulta Labs, click HERE.

PS. You can also download a free Thyroid Diet Guide, 10 Thyroid friendly recipes, and the Nutrient Depletions and Digestion chapter for free by going to www.thyroidpharmacist.com/gift. You will also receive occasional updates about new research, resources, giveaways and helpful information.