Why Is A Repeat T4 And TSH Test Required In Case Results Of Prior Test Are Elevated ?

Posted on Sun, 22 Apr 2012

Question: I have an elevated (suppressed tsh) result and have been sent for another FT4 & tsh what are they looking for?

Answered by Dr. Puneet Maheshwari (6 hours later)

Hi,

Thanks for the query.

First of all, i will tell you about the normal physiology of thyroid gland.the thyroid gland produces T4 and T3. But this production is not possible without stimulation from the pituitary gland (TSH) which in turn is also regulated by the hypothalamus's TSH Releasing Hormone.

Now-the level of T3,T4,TSH is measured by Radio immuno assay.and T4 by RIA (radioimmunoassay) is the most used thyroid test of all.
There may be two possibilities--

1- INCREASED TSH-- it indicates hypothyroidism.
2- DECREASED- it indicates hyperthyroidism.

To test the thyroid functions, fasting is necessary, and it should be at-least overnight.

Thats why, your doctor advised you for FT4 and TSH. to get the more precise value.

IT is not a separate test.

Hope this information will help you. AND IN FUTURE , I M READY FOR FOLLOW UP.

REGARDS.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar