1157. Package # 3.1 (Thyroid: TSH, T4 Free, ATPO)

Thyroid Package No. 3.1 (TSH, Free T4, Anti-TPO) is a comprehensive laboratory test panel that includes TSH, free T4, and antibodies to thyroid peroxidase (Anti-TPO). The combination of these parameters helps assess thyroid function and identify signs of an autoimmune process in which the immune system mistakenly acts against the thyroid gland.

The thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones, which affect metabolism, energy levels, body temperature, heart rate, nervous system function, and reproductive health. Thyroid dysfunction may manifest as fatigue, unexplained changes in body weight, mood swings, hair loss, sensitivity to cold or heat, as well as a fast or slow heartbeat.

The Thyroid Panel combines TSH and free T4, which are used to assess thyroid function, and Anti-TPO, a marker of an autoimmune process. This panel is often referred to as a “thyroid hormone test,” although TSH is not a thyroid hormone but regulates thyroid function, while Anti-TPO are antibodies.

The package includes three parameters:

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) – a hormone that regulates thyroid function and the production of thyroid hormones. Its level helps assess whether the thyroid gland is functioning normally.
• Free T4 (free thyroxine) – a thyroid hormone that affects metabolism, energy levels, heart function, and the nervous system. It is measured together with TSH to assess thyroid function.
• Anti-TPO (antibodies to thyroid peroxidase) – antibodies that may be produced when the immune system mistakenly acts against the thyroid gland. Elevated Anti-TPO levels are most commonly detected in autoimmune thyroiditis, but they may also be elevated when thyroid function is normal. Therefore, the result is interpreted together with TSH and free T4.

TSH, free T4, Anti-TPO testing helps assess thyroid function and identify signs of an autoimmune process, but it does not establish a definitive diagnosis. A physician evaluates the results taking into account symptoms, health status, and other examinations. Depending on the results and the clinical situation, additional testing may include free T3 (free triiodothyronine), anti-thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb), or TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb).

Symptoms of thyroid dysfunction

Symptoms depend on whether the thyroid gland produces too little or too much hormone. They may include:

• persistent fatigue, drowsiness or, conversely, irritability and anxiety;
• unexplained weight gain or weight loss;
• poor tolerance of cold or heat, excessive sweating;
• rapid, slow, or irregular heartbeat;
• dry skin, hair loss, swelling;
• constipation or frequent bowel movements;
• impaired concentration and memory, mood swings;
• menstrual irregularities or difficulty conceiving;
• noticeable enlargement of the thyroid gland or swelling in the neck area.

These symptoms may have other causes, so they do not, by themselves, indicate the presence of thyroid disease.

The Thyroid Panel is recommended when it is necessary to assess thyroid function and check for signs of an autoimmune process. The test may be considered:

• when symptoms are present that may be associated with impaired thyroid function;
• in cases of thyroid enlargement (goiter) or detected nodules;
• if previous testing showed abnormal TSH or free T4 levels or abnormalities on ultrasound examination;
• if a physician suspects an autoimmune thyroid disease;
• if there is a history of thyroid disease in close relatives or other autoimmune diseases;
• during pregnancy planning and pregnancy – as recommended by a physician, especially in the presence of risk factors;
• in cases of menstrual irregularities or difficulty conceiving;
• to monitor thyroid function during treatment – as recommended by a physician;
• as part of a preventive examination when risk factors for thyroid disease are present.

• Venous blood

In order to exclude factors that may affect the test results, we recommend to follow the preparation rules: