TSH Test
Also known as: TSH (Ultrasensitive)/ TSH-U Test
TSH Test Overview
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) or Thyrotropin is produced by the pituitary gland. It acts on the thyroid gland to promote the production of thyroid hormones - thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid hormones are essential for growth and metabolism.
One of the most important and reliable tests to evaluate a person's thyroid function is the TSH Ultrasensitive test. Ultrasensitive Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (U-TSH) as the name suggests is a more refined, sensitive and rapid test with a sensitivity of 0.05 µIU/mL. It is used to detect primary hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism and to calculate TRH or track individuals on thyroid replacement treatment. Following are the symptoms of hyperthyroidism: weight loss, rapid heartbeat, tremors, sweating, anxiety, increased sensitivity to heat, etc. Whereas patients with hypothyroidism suffer from weight gain, fatigue, slow heart rate, increased sensitivity to cold, depression, dry and thin hair etc.
Reasons for Undergoing the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive
The TSH test is a crucial diagnostic tool for assessing thyroid function. There are several key reasons why individuals may need to undergo this test:
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To diagnose thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) or hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
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To screen for thyroid disease, particularly in newborns and high-risk individuals with autoimmune disorders or a family history of thyroid issues
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To evaluate thyroid nodules (lumps) and goitre (thyroid gland enlargement)
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To monitor the response to treatment for various thyroid conditions
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To check TSH levels in individuals planning pregnancy or during pregnancy, as thyroid function can impact foetal development and maternal health
Purpose Of A TSH Test
The primary purpose of a TSH test is to assess how well your thyroid gland is functioning. TSH, or thyroid-stimulating hormone, is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It regulates the production of thyroid hormones T3 and T4. The TSH test:
- Screens for thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid) and hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Monitors the effectiveness of thyroid disorder treatments
- Helps diagnose pituitary gland disorders that affect TSH production
- Is crucial for ensuring healthy thyroid function during pregnancy
An ultrasensitive TSH test can detect even slight variations in TSH levels, enabling early diagnosis and treatment of subtle thyroid dysfunction.
How Do You Prepare For a TSH Test?
Preparing for a TSH test is relatively simple. Since TSH levels naturally fluctuate throughout the day, peaking at night and dipping in the afternoon, it's best to schedule your test early in the morning for the most consistent results. No fasting is usually required. However, if you take high-dose biotin (>5 mg/day), stop for at least 8 hours before sample collection to avoid interference with the test results. Inform your doctor about all medicines, including steroids, dopamine, lithium, amiodarone, or thyroid medication, as these can affect TSH values. If possible, schedule the test in the early morning for consistency.
What Is The Procedure Of A TSH Test?
The TSH test procedure is quick and minimally invasive:
- A healthcare professional will clean the skin on your inner elbow or back of your hand.
- A small needle is inserted into a vein to draw a blood sample.
- The blood is collected in a vial or tube.
- The puncture site is covered with a bandage to stop any bleeding.
The blood sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis using highly sensitive assay techniques that can measure even tiny amounts of TSH.
Preparation Guidelines
To ensure accurate TSH test results, follow these guidelines:
- Schedule your test for early morning to minimise the impact of natural TSH fluctuations.
- Take your thyroid medication as advised by your doctor; in many cases, morning thyroid medication can be taken after the blood draw to avoid transient changes in TSH or thyroid hormone levels.
- Inform your doctor about all current medications, including high-dose biotin supplements, which should be avoided for at least 8 hours before the test, as they can interfere with TSH assay results.
- Follow any specific instructions provided if the TSH test is part of a broader panel of tests.
Remember, in most cases, no fasting or special dietary restrictions are necessary before the test.
TSH Test: Interpreting Results
TSH levels are measured in milli-international units per litre (mIU/L). Here's how to interpret TSH test results:
|
Interpretation |
TSH Level (µU/mL) |
Possible Condition |
|
Low TSH |
< 0.54 |
Possible hyperthyroidism or pituitary disorder |
|
Normal TSH |
0.54 – 5.3 |
Normal thyroid function |
|
High TSH |
> 5.3 |
Possible hypothyroidism |
However, TSH levels can vary based on factors like age, pregnancy, and the specific lab's reference range. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your overall health, symptoms, and other thyroid function tests like Free T4 if needed.
Conclusion
At Metropolis Healthcare, we understand the importance of accurate and timely diagnostic testing. As a leading chain of pathology labs across India, we offer reliable TSH testing services with the convenience of at-home sample collection by our skilled phlebotomists. Our state-of-the-art laboratories ensure precise results, which are easily accessible via email and our user-friendly Metropolis TruHealth app.
List of Parameters Considered During the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Ultrasensitive
The TSH ultrasensitive test price includes the measurement of a single, yet crucial parameter:
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Thyroid-Stimulating Hormone (TSH): Produced by the pituitary gland, TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce hormones such as triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4). High TSH levels typically indicate hypothyroidism, while low levels usually suggest hyperthyroidism.
Home Collection for TSH Ultrasensitive Near You
At Metropolis Healthcare, we understand the importance of convenience and accessibility when it comes to healthcare. Our home sample collection service for TSH ultrasensitive test allows you to have your blood drawn by a trained phlebotomist in the comfort and safety of your home.
Our experts follow strict standards in sample handling, ensuring the precision of your test results. Committed to offering a high-quality diagnostic services and prompt, dependable outcomes, you can count on Metropolis Healthcare to bring the care you need directly to your doorstep.
TSH Test at Price in Different Cities
The TSH test cost can vary depending on factors such as location, laboratory, and healthcare setting. Here's a general overview of TSH test price ranges in some major cities:
|
City |
Approximate Cost (INR) |
|
₹ 100 to ₹ 400 |
|
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₹ 100 to ₹ 400 |
|
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₹ 100 to ₹ 400 |
|
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₹ 100 to ₹ 400 |
Keep in mind that the TSH test price may be lower with insurance coverage or at government health clinics. It's always advisable to check with local labs for exact TSH test cost information.
TSH (Ultrasensitive)/ TSH-U Test Price
TSH (Ultrasensitive)/ TSH-U Test Price Metropolis Healthcare is a leading diagnostics centre and pathology lab in India equipped with the latest state-of-the-art technologies that provides the TSH (Ultrasensitive)/ TSH-U Test with a clear pricing structure. The TSH (Ultrasensitive)/ TSH-U Test Price in Mumbai is ₹ 400. We are committed to deliver accurate and quality results from the best labs in India with complete transparency regarding test cost and turnaround time. No matter where you are, we strive to offer patients high-quality service that is affordable and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
TSH test is done to:
- To identify overt and subclinical thyroid problems.
- To keep track of thyroid replacement therapy patients.
- To check for congenital hypothyroidism in newborns.
- To check for thyroid symptoms, such as an enlarged thyroid or thyroid nodule.
TSH ultrasensitive test measures levels of TSH in blood.
The test requires a blood sample. An elastic band is tightly tied to the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps to fill the veins with blood. A needle is inserted into the vein after cleaning the skin with an alcohol swab. A blood sample is collected using a vacutainer. A slight prick may be felt upon inserting the needle. Tenderness or bruising, if any, usually resolves in some time.
- High TSH & high FT3/FT4: Thyroxine replacement therapy; pituitary adenoma; drugs like heparin, amiodarone, beta blockers, steroids; neonates; resistance to thyroid hormones
- High TSH & low FT3/ FT4: Autoimmune thyroiditis, thyroidectomy, post-radiation, iodine deficiency, thyroid infiltrating tumour/ amyloid
- Low TSH & Low FT3/ FT4: Central hypothyroidism, non-thyroidal illness
- Low TSH & High FT3/ FT4: Grave's disease, toxic multinodular goitre, toxic adenoma, thyroiditis, drugs, hyperemesis gravidarum & hydatiform mole, congenital hyperthyroidism
The pituitary gland produces thyrotropin, often known as thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). It influences the thyroid gland to increase thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) production. These two thyroid hormones regulate several growth and metabolic processes in the body.
This test is recommended for people suffering from symptoms of hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
The following are signs of hyperthyroidism:
- Loss of weight.
- Fast heartbeat.
- cold sweat
- Trembling.
- Perspiration.
- Panic.
- Increased awareness of heat.
Patients with hypothyroidism experience:
- weight gain
- abnormal menstrual cycles
- dry and flaky skin
- weariness
- sluggish heartbeat
- increased susceptibility to cold
- despair
- dry and thin hair
Regular TSH level monitoring in thyroid disorder patients is also necessary to adjust the medication dosage depending on the condition of the patient.
Since the testing can be performed at any time of the day, fasting is not necessary. Your doctor should be aware of any medications that you are taking and any X-rays or tests that required the administration of iodine dye 4 to 6 weeks prior to taking this test. These may have an impact on the test results. You may get advice from your endocrinologist if you need to take any extra precautions.
The normal range for this test is 0.3 - 5U/ml across all age groups and sexes. However, the normal range may vary depending on age, sex and methodology used in the lab.
TSH (Ultrasensitive) is a more accurate and sensitive test than a regular TSH test.
Hypothyroidism is characterized by an underactive thyroid gland leading to low thyroid hormone production. Hyperthyroidism is characterized by an overactive thyroid gland that produces thyroid hormones in excess. Both are thyroid disorders that need to be treated with medications and lifestyle changes.
Grave's disease, also known as toxic diffuse goitre, is a kind of hyperthyroidism that occurs due to an autoimmune condition. It requires rapid treatment.
Depending upon your test results and your symptoms, your doctor may order additional tests, such as:
- T3-total
- T3-free
- T4-total
- T4-free
- Thyroid hormone binding globulin (THBG) test
- Thyroid profile test.
- Thyrotropin Test
- TSH Ultrasensitive Test
- Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test
- Ultrasensitive Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Test
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