Triiodothyronine (T3) Test

The thyroid gland, located in the neck, is responsible for maintaining the energy levels in the body. It also controls the body’s reaction to other hormones. This gland produces a hormone known as the triiodothyronine or T3. Some of the T3 hormone binds itself to body protein while some of it remains unbound. The Triiodothyronine Total test measures both these types T3 in the blood. This test indicates any and all kinds of thyroid problems. Its primary use is to detect the condition of hyperthyroidism. It also helps the doctor in prescribing the treatment for other thyroid disorders.

There are no specific preparations required for the test. You should, however, consult your doctor regarding the consumption of medicines such as birth control pills, steroids, etc. These may affect the results negatively. Since the test is conducted as a routine blood test, you need to wear clothes such as a half-sleeved shirt.

The T3 Total test is used to measure the level of free and bind T3 in the blood. This test analyses the production of T3 by the thyroid gland and diagnoses the condition of hyperthyroidism, when the gland produces excessive hormones. It also detects other thyroid disorders. The following is revealed: Risk of suffering from autoimmune disorder such as Grave’s Disease Increased prospect of a heart disease Weakness in muscles resulting from the condition of thyrotoxic periodic paralysis Test the changes or improvements in the condition from the prescribed treatment Risk of liver diseases

The blood test involves a health practitioner cleaning your skin with some alcohol and tying a band on your upper arm. This creates a greater pressure of blood in the veins. The practitioner will insert a needle into the vein and draw out the required sample of blood. Once the blood has been taken, the skin is cleaned with cotton and bandaged. This sample is tested in the laboratory.