Thyroid Panel 3

This is our most comprehensive thyroid assessment, giving a complete picture of how well your thyroid is working and whether an autoimmune cause is involved. It measures the full range of thyroid hormones, in both their free and total forms, together with all three main thyroid antibodies. It is well suited to a thorough investigation of thyroid symptoms, or where a fuller assessment is needed than a standard thyroid panel provides.

Thyroid hormones

• TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone): produced by the pituitary gland to control the thyroid, and the most sensitive first-line marker of thyroid function
• Free T4 and Free T3: the active, available forms of the two thyroid hormones, giving a direct measure of what the thyroid is currently providing to the body
• Total T4 and Total T3: the total amount of these hormones in the blood, including the portion bound to proteins, which can add context in certain situations

Thyroid antibodies

These reveal whether your immune system is producing antibodies against your thyroid, the most common underlying cause of thyroid problems:

• TPO antibodies (thyroid peroxidase antibodies): the main antibody marker, associated with Hashimoto's disease and Graves' disease
• Thyroglobulin antibodies (TG antibodies): a further antibody that supports the identification of autoimmune thyroid disease, sometimes present when TPO antibodies are not
• TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb): antibodies specific to Graves' disease, the main cause of an overactive thyroid, making them particularly useful in confirming this condition

What it can help assess

• Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism): which can cause tiredness, weight gain, low mood, and feeling cold
• Overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism): which can cause weight loss, anxiety, a fast heartbeat, and feeling hot
• Autoimmune thyroid disease: identifying and distinguishing the autoimmune causes, including Hashimoto's and Graves' disease
• A thorough thyroid investigation: where a complete assessment of hormones and antibodies is wanted

An important note on interpretation

Thyroid hormones and antibodies are best interpreted together, as the overall pattern reveals far more than any single value. Some people have thyroid antibodies without any current thyroid problem, which can indicate a higher future risk rather than a condition now. Levels can also be affected by illness, certain medications, and pregnancy. Any abnormal result should be discussed with your GP or a specialist, who can interpret it in context and advise on any further testing or treatment.

Why it matters

Thyroid problems are common and often autoimmune in origin. By measuring the full range of thyroid hormones alongside all three main antibodies, this comprehensive panel gives the most complete picture of your thyroid health, helping to detect a thyroid condition, identify and distinguish its autoimmune cause, and guide appropriate monitoring and care.