Thyroid Test Types That You Should Know

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland that weighs even less than an ounce. It is found in the front portion of the neck, right below the voice box or larynx and hosts two lobes, one on the each side of the windpipe. A thyroid test is vital when the thyroid gland is not working properly. It is because the improper functioning of the gland disturbs the entire endocrine system. Reasons for performing the test.

Before you read about various types of tests, which are done to diagnose this ailment in the body, you first need to know for the reasons for performing the test.

Endocrinologists schedule a test for the thyroid to assess the working efficiency of the thyroid gland. The test also helps to diagnose the factors behind hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Hyperthyroidism is a situation that results out of too much production of the thyroid gland. Hypothyroidism, in contrast, is a condition when there is a lack of the production of this gland. In both situations, only a thyroid test can reveal accurate results, and henceforth the treatment is possible.

Different types of tests for thyroid

There are four major types of tests, which helps to detect the functionality of this gland.

TSH Test - This test helps your endocrinologist to check the working status of the thyroid gland. It measures the overall amount of TSH, which the pituitary gland of the person's body secrets on a regular basis. It delivers more accurate results as it detects even minute amounts of TSH in the blood. Abnormalities can occur within the body when the TSH does not respond adequately to the pituitary gland. Therefore, if the test results in abnormal conclusions, then additional examinations are required to identify the cause of this problem.

T3 Test - Your endocrinologist may recommend another type of test for the thyroid, known as a T3 if he suspects hyperthyroidism in an individual. The test executes when the level of FT4 is normal. It is because in some situations, even normal FT4 level can result in hyperthyroidism.

T4 Test - The body secrets T4 in two different forms. T4, which is bound to match proteins in the blood and the body, stores it in reserve until the time; it needs T4. FT4, also known as free thyroxine is the active form of this gland and is available to enter into the tissues when required. A high level of T4 and FT4 result in hyperthyroidism, with an exception of a pregnant woman. The level of T4 is more in pregnant females.

TSI test - TSI or Thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin is an antibody witnessed in people suffering from Grave's disease. It occurs when there is an additional amount of thyroid secreted in the body. The TSI test detects the level of TSI in the blood.

Anti-thyroid Antibody Test - Anti-thyroid antibodies are present in the blood and are supportive to detect the presence of Hashimoto disease, which occurs due to abnormal functioning of the thyroid gland. Two chief forms of anti-thyroid antibodies are anti-TPO that attacks the enzymes in the thyroid cells; anti-TG that attacks a protein in the thyroid, known as thyroglobulin.

Various factors may affect the thyroid test. The test is the only way to diagnose the presence of the ailments, which occur due to this improper functioning of thyroid gland.