Thyroid Health Panel
Test ID: A928
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Introduction
The thyroid gland is a vital hormone gland that helps regulate many different processes around the body. When thyroid hormones are out of balance, multiple body systems are affected. Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too many hormones and speeds up processes around the body, including increased body temperature, heart rate, and digestion. Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, and processes around the body slow down, including a slower heart rate, a constant feeling of cold, and slower digestion leading to constipation.
Pricing
$99
What is Included?
Measurement of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (T4), and free triiodothyronine (T3) levels with chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassays.
Turnaround Time
1 – 3 business days
The turnaround time is not guaranteed. The average turnaround time is 1 – 3 business days from the date that the sample arrives at the laboratory. Shipping time for the sample is not included. Additional time is required if the case requires confirmatory or reflex testing, or if the sample is insufficient, or if a recollection is required.
Additional Information and Resources
SPECIMEN REQUIREMENTS
Preparation Before Specimen Collection
None
Specimen Type
Blood
Volume
50 μL in a microtainer
Container
Microtainer (regular blood tube)
Collection Method
This test requires a blood sample from a finger prick. All supplies for sample collection are provided in the kit.
- First wash and dry hands. Warm hands aid in blood collection.
- Clean the finger prick site with the alcohol swab and allow to air dry.
- Use the provided lancet to puncture the skin in one quick, continuous and deliberate stroke.
- Wipe away the first drop of blood.
- Massage hand and finger to increase blood flow to the puncture site. Angle arm and hand downwards to facilitate blood collection on the fingertip.
- Drip blood into the microtainer tube.
- Dispose of all sharps safely and return sample to the laboratory in the provided prepaid return shipping envelope.
NOTES: Avoid squeezing or ‘milking’ the finger excessively. If more blood is required and blood flow stops, perform a second skin puncture on another finger. Do not touch the fingertip.
Specimen Storage
Maintain specimen at temperatures between 2°C and 30°C during storage and transport.
Specimen Stability
Blood samples can be refrigerated or kept at room temperature for up to 7 days.
Causes for Rejection
- Incorrect or incomplete patient identification
- Incorrect specimen collection
- Inappropriate storage and transport conditions
- Incorrect specimen volume
TEST DETAILS
Purpose
To measure thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (T4), and free triiodothyronine (T3) levels in a blood sample, to aid in the investigation of thyroid function.
Limitations
- This report is not intended for use in medico-legal applications.
- These results should be interpreted in conjunction with other laboratory and clinical information.
- Correct specimen collection and handling is required for optimal assay performance.
- Assay interference may occur in specimens from individuals routinely exposed to animals or to animal serum products. Additional clinical or diagnostic information may be required for these specimens.
- False results may occur in specimens from individuals that have received preparations of mouse monoclonal antibodies for diagnosis or therapy. Additional clinical or diagnostic information may be required for these specimens.
Methodology
Chemiluminescent microparticle immunoassays:
Alinity i TSH assay
Alinity i Free T4 assay
Alinity i Free T3 assay
Reference Intervals
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) | 0.35 – 4.94 μIU/mL |
Free Thyroxine (T4) | 0.70 – 1.48 ng/dL |
Free Triiodothyronine (T3) | 1.58 – 3.91 pg/mL |
These reference ranges were obtained from the Alinity i package inserts listed in Methodology section above.