Thyroid Function Test (TFT)-Introduction, Test Result, Unit, Normal Range, Test Method, Clinical Significance, and Keynotes

Introduction of Thyroid Function Test (TFT)

If you are suffering from any of the symptoms stated in the table (Differences between Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism), ask for a thyroid function test (TFT). Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level in your body is high than the normal range (0.27 to 4.2 mIU/L) while in hyperthyroidism its level is low. A thyroid function test (TFT) is a series of blood assays applied to measure how well the thyroid gland is working. Available tests include the triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) tests. There is no need for special preparation for thyroid function tests and blood is used for testing.

Thyroid Function Test (TFT)- Test Result, Unit, Normal Range, Test Method, and Clinical Significance

Differences between Hypothyroidism and Hyperthyroidism

The differences between hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are as follows-

S.No	Hypothyroidism	Hyperthyroidism
1.	Dry, Coarse Hair	Hair Loss
2.	Puffy Face	Bulging Eyes
3.	Enlarged Thyroid	Enlarged Thyroid
4.	Slow Heartbeat	Rapid Heartbeat
5.	Cold Intolerance	Heart Intolerance
6.	Depression	Nervousness
7.	Dry Skin	Sweating
8.	Forgetfulness	Irritability
9.	Heavy Menstrual Periods	Scant Menstrual Periods
10.	Infertility	Infertility
11.	Muscle Aches	Muscle Weakness
12.	Weight Gain	Weight Loss
13.	Constipation	Frequent Bowel Movement
14.	Brittle Nails	Warm, Moist Palms
15.	Arthritis	Tremor of Fingers
16.	Increased TSH	Decreased TSH

Keynotes on TFT

• If the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough T3 and T4 hormones, a patient may experience symptoms like weight gain, lack of energy, and depression. This status is called hypothyroidism.
• When a thyroid gland produces too many T3 and T4 hormones, a patient may experience weight loss, high levels of anxiety, tremors, and a sense of being on a high, and such conditions are called hyperthyroidism.
• When a thyroid gland is overactive, the clinician may order a thyroid scan (thyroid Scintigraphy) that provides information regarding the structure and function of the thyroid gland this technique makes it able to see the size, shape, function, and position of the gland.
• ECLIA stands for electrochemiluminescence immunoassay.