Ordering the Extended Hashimotos Thyroid Panel
Ordering the Extended Hashimotos Thyroid Panel helps check for thyroid hormone levels and thyroid antibodies that may point to autoimmune thyroid disease. This test looks at thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), unbound free T4, unbound free T3, reverse T3, thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPO), and thyroglobulin antibody (TGB), giving a full view of thyroid function and possible immune system activity. Interestingly, reverse T3 is included in this panel, which can help show if your body is converting thyroid hormones properly—a detail often missed in standard thyroid checks.
Ordering this panel can help you:
- Detect thyroid autoimmunity by measuring TPO and TGB antibodies.
- Check for underactive or overactive thyroid by looking at TSH, free T4, and free T3 levels.
- Spot issues with hormone conversion using reverse T3 results.
- Track changes in thyroid function over time for those already diagnosed with thyroid conditions.
- Guide treatment decisions with a more complete thyroid profile.
Who Should Consider Comprehensive Thyroid Antibody and Hormone Testing
People who have ongoing tiredness, unexplained weight changes, or trouble with memory may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been feeling unusually cold, gaining weight despite eating the same, and noticing hair thinning might want to check if their thyroid is involved.
Ordering this test may also be helpful if you:
- Have a family member with thyroid disease or autoimmune conditions.
- Are experiencing changes in mood, such as feeling more anxious or down than usual.
- Notice swelling in the neck or have a history of goiter.
- Are planning a pregnancy or have had trouble with fertility.
- Have high cholesterol that does not improve with diet or medication, as thyroid issues can affect cholesterol levels.
This test can show if your thyroid is making the right amount of hormones and if your immune system is attacking your thyroid, which can help explain symptoms and guide next steps. Waiting to order this test could delay finding out if thyroid antibodies are present, which may lead to missed chances for early treatment or monitoring.
Preparing for Thyroid Autoimmunity and Hormone Lab Work
Fasting is not needed for this test, so you can eat and drink as usual before your blood draw. Always follow any directions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected the right way.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Extended Hashimotos Thyroid Panel
Test Name | Reference Range | What This Test Shows | Low and High Levels of This Test |
---|---|---|---|
Thyroid Peroxidase antibody (TPO) | 0–9 IU/mL | TPO antibodies are made by the immune system and can attack the thyroid. High levels may mean autoimmune thyroid disease, such as Hashimoto’s. | High levels mean the immune system may be attacking the thyroid, often seen in Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease.
Low levels mean there is little or no immune attack on the thyroid. |
Thyroglobulin antibody (TGB) | 0–0.9 IU/mL | TGB antibodies can show if the immune system is reacting to thyroglobulin, a protein in the thyroid. This helps spot autoimmune thyroid problems. | High levels mean the immune system may be attacking thyroglobulin, which is common in Hashimoto’s.
Low levels mean there is little or no immune response to thyroglobulin. |
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) | 0.40–4.50 mIU/L | TSH is made by the pituitary gland and tells the thyroid to make hormones. It is a key marker for thyroid function. | High levels mean the thyroid may not be making enough hormone (possible hypothyroidism).
Low levels mean the thyroid may be making too much hormone (possible hyperthyroidism). |
Unbound free T4 | 0.8–1.8 ng/dL | Free T4 is the main hormone made by the thyroid and is not attached to proteins. It shows how much active thyroid hormone is available. | High levels mean the thyroid is making too much hormone, which can cause symptoms like fast heartbeat or sweating.
Low levels mean the thyroid is not making enough hormone, which can cause tiredness or weight gain. |
Unbound free T3 | 2.3–4.2 pg/mL | Free T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone. It helps control how the body uses energy and is important for many body functions. | High levels mean the body may be using too much energy, which can cause symptoms like nervousness or weight loss.
Low levels mean the body may not be using enough energy, which can cause tiredness or feeling cold. |
Reverse T3 | 8–25 ng/dL | Reverse T3 is an inactive form of T3. It can show if the body is converting thyroid hormones in a way that may slow down metabolism. | High levels mean the body may be slowing down metabolism, sometimes seen in stress or illness.
Low levels mean the body is not making much reverse T3, which is usually not a concern. |
Reference ranges can change over time. For the most current values, visit the Quest Diagnostics lab test directory.
Extended Hashimotos Thyroid Panel FAQ
Is there Extended Hashimotos Thyroid Panel testing near me?
You can find a nearby location for this panel using the patient service center locator, which also lists mobile phlebotomy options for those who may have trouble traveling or need a more convenient way to get their blood drawn.
What is the cost of the test?
The price shown for this panel covers everything, including the blood draw at a patient service center. Ordering this test is worth it if you have ongoing symptoms that have not been explained by other lab work.
How often should I retest?
Most people retest every 6 to 12 months, or as recommended by their doctor, to track changes in thyroid antibodies and hormone levels. Regular retesting helps spot shifts in thyroid function or autoimmunity that may need a change in treatment.
How accurate is the test?
This panel uses immunoassay and chemiluminescent methods for antibody and hormone measurement, with a specificity of 99% and sensitivity of 98%. TrueHealthLabs.com works with CLIA-certified labs to maintain high-quality testing standards you can trust.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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