Ordering the Thyroid Function Test | Genova Europe
Ordering the Thyroid Function Test | Genova Europe helps check how well your thyroid is working by measuring several hormones and antibodies in your blood. This test can help find out if your thyroid is making too much or too little hormone, which can affect your energy, weight, mood, and more. Interestingly, thyroid antibodies can show up in your blood years before you notice any symptoms, making early testing helpful for catching changes before they cause problems.
When ordering this test, you can expect these specific benefits:
- Measures both thyroid hormones and antibodies for a complete thyroid profile
- Helps identify both underactive and overactive thyroid function
- Detects autoimmune thyroid conditions before symptoms appear
- Supports your doctor in adjusting medication or treatment plans
- Tracks changes in thyroid function over time for better management
Who Should Consider Thyroid Hormone and Antibody Testing
People who feel tired all the time, have trouble losing or gaining weight, or notice changes in their skin, hair, or mood may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been feeling unusually cold, has dry skin, and is struggling with memory or concentration might find answers by checking their thyroid function.
Ordering this test may also be helpful in these situations:
- Unexplained weight changes that do not improve with diet or exercise
- Irregular menstrual cycles or fertility concerns
- Persistent constipation or digestive changes
- Family history of thyroid or autoimmune conditions
- Recent changes in heart rate or new palpitations that are not linked to exercise or stress
Testing can help pinpoint the cause of symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, or hair loss by showing if your thyroid is working as it should. Delaying this test could mean missing early signs of thyroid problems, which may lead to more noticeable symptoms or make treatment adjustments take longer.
Preparing for Thyroid Hormone and Antibody Blood Testing
Fasting is not needed for this test, so you can eat and drink as usual before your blood draw. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected correctly and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Thyroid Function Test | Genova Europe
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Test Measures | Low and High Levels of This Marker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) | 0.4 – 4.0 | TSH is made by the pituitary gland and tells the thyroid to make hormones. It is the main marker for checking thyroid function. |
High levels mean your thyroid may be underactive (hypothyroidism).
Low levels mean your thyroid may be overactive (hyperthyroidism). |
| Total T4 | 5.0 – 12.0 | Total T4 measures all thyroxine in your blood, both bound and unbound. It helps show how much hormone your thyroid is making. |
High levels mean your thyroid may be making too much hormone.
Low levels mean your thyroid may not be making enough hormone. |
| Unbound Free T4 | 0.8 – 1.8 | Free T4 is the part of thyroxine not attached to proteins, so it can enter cells and do its job. It shows how much active hormone is available. |
High levels mean your body has more active thyroid hormone than needed.
Low levels mean your body may not have enough active thyroid hormone. |
| Unbound Free T3 | 2.3 – 4.2 | Free T3 is the active form of triiodothyronine, which helps control metabolism. It is important for energy, mood, and body temperature. |
High levels mean your metabolism may be too fast.
Low levels mean your metabolism may be too slow. |
| Anti-Thyroglobulin Antibodies | 0 – 4 | These antibodies can show if your immune system is attacking your thyroid. They are often found in autoimmune thyroid conditions. |
High levels mean your immune system may be affecting your thyroid.
Low levels mean your immune system is not attacking your thyroid. |
| Peroxidase Antibodies | 0 – 9 | Peroxidase antibodies show if your immune system is reacting to thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme needed for making thyroid hormones. |
High levels mean you may have an autoimmune thyroid condition.
Low levels mean your immune system is not reacting to this enzyme. |
Reference ranges may change slightly over time as labs update their standards.
Thyroid Function Test FAQ
Is there Thyroid Function Test testing near me?
This is a test kit that can be collected at a local blood draw site—check the draw location link at the top of the page. For people experiencing symptoms like fatigue or unexplained weight changes, having a nearby collection site makes it easier to get tested quickly and start finding answers.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should always review your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand what your numbers mean and what steps you can take next.
What is the cost of the test?
The price listed for this test includes standard shipping to you and return shipping to the lab, but local draw fees may apply. Ordering this test is worth it if you want to address symptoms like tiredness or mood changes sooner, as testing can help you and your doctor find the right treatment faster.
How often should I retest?
Most people retest every 6 to 12 months, or as recommended by their doctor, to track changes in thyroid hormone levels and antibody status. Regular testing helps you and your doctor adjust your treatment plan if your thyroid function changes over time.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses chemiluminescent immunoassay and enzyme immunoassay methods, which are known for high precision in measuring thyroid hormones and antibodies. The specificity is 99% and sensitivity is 98%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- The test kit is mailed via DHL. Contact us with questions.
- READ: This test is for European countries only.
- Drugs that may interfere with test results include glucocorticoids (e.g., prednisone), dopamine, lithium, interferon-alpha, phenobarbital, phenytoin, heparin, clofibrate, carbamazepine, and colestipol. If you have questions, please consult your healthcare practitioner.
- Arrange to have your blood drawn on Monday – Thursday, for returning to the laboratory for next-day delivery, to arrive by Friday.
- Complete the requisition form with all patient information requested in red regarding hormones. Be sure it is signed and dated on the date the sample is taken in the box labeled “Final Sample Date/Time.”
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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