testing

[kelle619]

I'm going for a second opinion for my thyroid. I was just wondering, what tests should be ordered for accurate diagnosis..

[kelle619]

Thank you. Just curious why they don't usually order it?

[Barb135]

It doesn't hurt to get rT3, but if you're getting blood work through a doctor, many won't order it.  It's not something I'd fight for, because it won't help you get a diagnosis.

[kelle619]

By the way how about reverse t3?

[kelle619]

Thank you so much. You gave me so much great info
I will make sure I get all that done
Thanks Barb

[Barb135]

You need Free T3, Free T4, TSH and if you've never had antibody testing, you should get those as well.  If you suspect hypothyroidism, you should get the tests for Hashimoto's, which are Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPOab) and Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb).

If possible, you might want to go ahead and get Vitamin B-12, Vitamin D, and ferritin at the same time, since vitamin D and iron are necessary for the metabolism of thyroid hormones.  Deficiency of any of these vitamins/minerals can cause hypo-like symptoms.  

If you suspect hyperthyroidism, you should also get antibodies for Graves Disease - Thyroid Stimulating Immunoglobulin (TSI).  

One can have hyper phases of Hashimoto's or have Graves Disease if hyper, so should be tested for both.  If you think you're only hypo, then you don't need to be tested for Graves.