What are the items for thyroid blood test

Thyroid blood test mainly evaluates thyroid function and autoimmune status. Routine items include thyroid stimulating hormone, free thyroxine, free triiodothyronine, thyroid peroxidase antibody, and thyroid globulin antibody.

1. Thyroid stimulating hormone:

Thyroid stimulating hormone is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland, used to regulate thyroid function. When hypothyroidism occurs, the level of thyroid stimulating hormone increases, while when hyperthyroidism occurs, it decreases. This examination is the most sensitive indicator for screening thyroid dysfunction and can detect subclinical hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism early. If the results are abnormal, doctors usually combine other indicators to determine whether medication is needed, such as levothyroxine sodium tablets or methimazole tablets, but specific medication must follow the doctor's advice.

2. Free Thyroxine:

Free Thyroxine is the main hormone secreted by the thyroid gland, directly reflecting its synthetic function. Elevated free thyroxine is commonly seen in hyperthyroidism, while decreased free thyroxine is seen in hypothyroidism. Detecting free thyroxine can help distinguish the type of thyroid disease, for example, combining with thyroid stimulating hormone can distinguish primary or secondary thyroid lesions. In terms of treatment, patients with hyperthyroidism may need to use propylthiouracil tablets, while patients with hypothyroidism may need to supplement with levothyroxine sodium tablets, but both require guidance from a doctor.

3. Free triiodothyronine:

Free triiodothyronine is the most active form of thyroid hormone, mainly secreted by the thyroid gland and partially converted from free thyroxine. Elevated levels of free triiodothyronine are more common in hyperthyroidism diseases such as Graves' disease, and their level changes are more sensitive than free thyroxine. If there is a significant increase in free triiodothyronine and normal free thyroxine, it may indicate early hyperthyroidism or thyroid hormone resistance syndrome. When treating hyperthyroidism, doctors may recommend methimazole tablets or carbimazole tablets, but self medication is not allowed.

4. Thyroid peroxidase antibody:

Thyroid peroxidase antibody is an important biomarker of autoimmune thyroid disease, and positivity is common in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis and some Graves' disease. The elevated antibody suggests that thyroid tissue is being attacked by the autoimmune system, which may lead to gradual hypothyroidism. If patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis experience symptoms of hypothyroidism, doctors may recommend using levothyroxine sodium tablets as an alternative treatment, while regularly monitoring changes in antibody levels, but specific plans should follow medical advice.

5. Thyroid globulin antibody:

Thyroid globulin antibody is similar to thyroid peroxidase antibody and is also an indicator of autoimmune thyroid disease. The two are often detected simultaneously. Elevated thyroid globulin antibodies are more common in Hashimoto's thyroiditis and can also be observed in monitoring postoperative recurrence of thyroid cancer. If the antibody level continues to rise, it indicates an active autoimmune response in the thyroid gland, which may be accompanied by thyroid enlargement or nodule formation. In terms of treatment, if combined with hypothyroidism, levothyroxine sodium tablets can be considered; If combined with hyperthyroidism, methimazole tablets are required, but all medications must be used under the guidance of a doctor.

Thyroid blood test usually does not require fasting, but if liver function or blood sugar are also tested, it is recommended to do so on an empty stomach. Before the examination, one should avoid staying up late, experiencing emotional fluctuations, and consuming high iodine foods such as seaweed and seaweed to avoid affecting the accuracy of the results. If any abnormal indicators are found, please consult an endocrinologist in a timely manner and evaluate them comprehensively with imaging examinations such as ultrasound. Do not interpret or use medication on your own.