Introduction to Thyroid Health & Blood Testing
The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine glands. It is a butterfly shaped gland that is wrapped around the windpipe. The ancient Greeks named the thyroid gland 'thyreos' which means shield. It is composed of two parts and produces many hormones that are frequently grouped together. Thyroid metabolism is a multi step process which begins in the hypothalamus which sends Thyroid Releasing Hormone (TRH) to the pituitary gland. Next, the pituitary gland produces Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) which stimulates the production of Thyroxine (T4) and Triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid hormone is required for metabolism in every cell, for every organ in the body.Symptoms of a dysfunctional thyroid may be fatigue, weight gain, cognitive impairment and depression and are often overlooked. Appropriate blood testing for thyroid function may identify thyroid dysfunction so appropriate and effective interventions can be implemented. Thyroid function can be impacted by many things such as toxins, infections and allergies to name a few which is why you will see more than the usual list of thyroid lab tests listed here.
Estimates show that approximately Thirteen million Americans have a thyroid imbalance known as hypothyroidism, which is characterized by the thyroid gland producing too little of the various thyroid hormones. The thyroid gland is one of the largest endocrine glands in the body. It is a small butterfly shaped mass wrapped around your windpipe. Composed of two parts, it produces an assortment of hormones that people commonly group together as “thyroid hormone.” These hormones carry out a number of crucial functions in order to sustain overall health and wellness. Thyroid hormones control the growth and development of the body, the brain and regulates metabolism of every cell, tissue, and organ in our body. Another way to think about metabolism is to think of it in terms of ‘life force'. If your thyroid were simply removed without supportive measures, all metabolic processes would come to a screaming halt - and so would You!
Thyroid Testing From a Functional Perspective
As stated above,over 27 million Americans suffer from thyroid related imbalances. If thyroid function is compromised or said another way, your thyroid is functioning at 40% (for example), imagine 27 million American's functioning at 40% overall. Now think of the impact that has on society as a whole? No wonder there is a Zombie craze!
Certain thyroid imbalances have been directly associated with internal as well as external factors to include infectious diseases (H.Pylori…) and ever increasing toxins (fluoride & glyphosate…) which are negatively impacting our cells as well as our environment. Did you know that thyroid hormone is required by every cell on our body in order to function optimally? This means thyroid function directly impacts gastrointestinal function, liver detoxification, our adrenal hormones, brain function (there is an association between Alzheimer's disease) and bone health to name a few. Reviewing thyroid health from a functional medicine perspective can help you identify thyroid hormone imbalances as well as factors that may directly or indirectly impact thyroid function in a negative way. We would like to thank you for reading along this far. Our hope is to help you understand how critical thyroid function is to you in everything you do. Sluggish thyroid means sluggish feelings towards work, community and family. A sluggish you means an unhappy you. Please keep reading.
Thyroid Testing - The Basics
The most commonly (and “Only”) reviewed blood test to evaluate thyroid function is a test known as a TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone).Thyroid Stimulating Hormone or thyrotropin really is the most common reviewed marker of thyroid function. It is a hormone that is secreted by the pituitary gland to stimulate thyroid activity. An elevated TSH level may indicate that the thyroid gland is unable to respond appropriately. Conversely, when the TSH level is low, this indicates that the thyroid is producing too much thyroid hormone. A decreased level of TSH may be related to an abnormality in the pituitary gland, causing an inadequate amount of TSH to stimulate the thyroid. Many factors may disrupt the balance of thyroid hormones production, such as, medications, allergies (wheat & gluten), anemia, gastrointestinal function, insulin resistance, bone metabolism, hormone imbalances, nutrient deficiencies such as selenium and Vitamins A & D and metabolic disruptors such as PCB’s to name a few.
A more comprehensive view is used when a functional medicine perspective is applied when evaluating thyroid function. A compressive review will include:
Total Thyroxine (T4) is a hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It receives its name for its four molecules of iodine. It measures the amount of T4 in the blood is a way to see how well the thyroid gland is working. It is usually decreased in hypothyroidism and in the first stage of thyrotoxicosis due to Hashimotos Disease. It may also be elevated due to increased intake of iodine or use of thyroxine.
Free T4 (FT4) is used to evaluate measure the amount of unbound or active T4 in circulation. It is used to evaluate thyroid function and monitor replacement and suppressive therapy.
Free T3 (FT3) is used to measure free T3 Hormone and is an excellent marker to measure the amount of active thyroid hormone that is available to bind with thyroid receptor sites. It is typically used to diagnose hyperthyroidism. It is also used to assess evaluate thyroid replacement and suppressive therapy.
Thyroid Antibodies (TPO & Ab) is a test that is frequently missed when thyroid function is being evaluated. You will notice this test is a combination test, meaning it will be used to evaluate “both” the thyroid autoantibodies (TAA) and the thyroid peroxidase antibodies. It is more common to see only the TPO ab looked for. The Thyroid autoantibody (TAA) is a test is a test that helps to determine if the body’s immune system has turned against itself. Thyroglobulin is a protein usually confined to the thyroid gland. It is the source of the thyroxine and triiodothyronine hormones in the body. The presence of autoantibodies to thyroglobulin may lead to the destruction of the thyroid gland. Such antibodies are more likely to appear after trauma to, or inflammation of, the thyroid gland.Thyroid Peroxidase antibodies (TPO ab) is a crucial antibody test related to the thyroid gland because the TPO is the enzyme that is responsible for the production of thyroid hormones. The TPO gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called thyroid peroxidase. This enzyme plays a central role in the function of the thyroid gland. Thyroid peroxidase assists the chemical reaction that adds iodine to a protein called thyroglobulin, a critical step in generating thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones play an important role in regulating growth, brain development, and the rate of chemical reactions in the body (metabolism).
Reverse T3 (rT3) measures the amount of rT3. It is typically elevated when there is stress to the body such as trauma, surgery or during periods of chronic stress. Reverse T3 does not stimulate metabolism. It maybe elevated due to an inability to clear rT3 and may also be elevated due to elevated levels of cortisol. There is a lot of differing opinions about what this test means, so remember to do some of your own research!
There are many cofactors that should be evaluated when assessing thyroid function such as ferritin, Vitamin B12 and Zinc to name a few.
Symptoms Associated (and overlooked) with Thyroid Imbalance
• Sudden unexplained weight gain or great difficulty losing fat
• Severe fatigue and frequent exhaustion
• Depression and gloominess
• Frequent constipation
• Menstrual irregularities — especially heavy bleeding with periods
• P.M.S. & Infertility
• Dry, coarse skin that is pale and itchy
• Puffiness of the face, especially in post-menopausal women
• Dry, coarse, thinning hair (thinning of the outer third of both eyebrows)
• Intolerance to heat & or cold
• Decreased sex drive
• Candida (yeast infections) & Repeated Bacterial & Viral Infections
• Premature aging
• Sleep Apnia
• Headaches
• Hypertension
• Brittle nails
• Diabetes
• MS
• Heart attack/stroke
• High cholesterol
• Muscle weakness
• Weak immune system
• Arthritis/Gout
• Low blood pressure
• Osteoporosis
• Joint/muscle pain
• Heart palpitations …….to name a few
Obtain Testing Without a Doctors Visit -
MyLabsForLife.com offers labs as individual tests or in strategically constructed panels to not only offer a more comprehensive view of thyroid function, cofactors that affect thyroid function. The list of lab tests below may look long and cumbersome – it is. That is because thyroid function is complicated because every cell in the body needs thyroid hormone in order to function optimally.
Identify Health Challenges That Impact Thyroid Function
Alkaline Phosphatase - This blood test measures Alkaline Phosphatase levels. Alkaline phosphatase is a group of enzymes found throughout the body, specifically in the bone, liver, placenta and intestine.
Candida Antibodies (Qualitative) - This blood test is used to detect systemic Candidiasis. Candida albicans is a common strain of yeast that normally occurs in the mouth, vagina, or gastrointestinal tract.
Candida Antigen / Antibody Profile - This blood test is used to detect antigens and antibodies (IgG, IgM, IgA) to Candida Albicans. Candida causes infections such as thrush, and is frequently an issue for people who have difficulty controlling their blood sugar (diabetes) and may be life threatening to those who have weakened immune systems. Test Code: 163178 Purchase or learn more here.
Celiac Disease (CD) Antibody Profile - This blood test is known by several names: Deamidated Gliaden Antibodies (DGP) and Gliaden, Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies. This blood test includes deamidated gliadin IgA; tissue transglutaminase IgA and serum IgA quantitation.
Celiac Disease (CD) Complete Panel - This blood test is used to aid in the diagnosis of Celiac Disease. The test includes deamidated gliaden IgA, deamidated IgG, tissue transglutaminase IgA, tissue transglutaminase IgG and serum IgA quantitation. Test code: 341142. Purchase or learn more.
Celiac Disease (CD) Comprehensive Antibody Profile - This blood test includes deamidated gliaden antibodies (DGP), endosymial antibodies, tissue transglutaminase (tTG) antibodies and total IgA. This test is used to aid in the identification of gluten sensitivity.
Celiac Disease (CD) HLA DQ Association - This blood test is also knows as: HLA DQ2, DLA DQ8, HLA Typing, DQ2 and DQ8 and may be of statistical significance when looking for Celiac disease.
Ceruloplasmin - This blood test measures Ceruloplasmin levels. About 95% of the copper in the blood is bound to ceruloplasmin.
Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) - Coenzyme Q10 is also known as Ubiquinone. This blood test is used to measure blood levels of CoQ10. CoQ10 is critical for the basic functioning in all cells and specifically to cardiac tissue due to the high-energy demands of cardiac cells.
Copper - This blood test is used to measure copper levels. Adequate levels of copper are critical for the production of neurotransmitters, energy, myelin, bone and connective tissue production, immune function and the production of blood.
Hereditary Hemochromatosis - This test is used to evaluate individuals with elevated transferrin levels and to further evaluate those who may be at risk for Hereditary Hemochromatosis (HH).
Lead (Blood) - This blood test used to measure lead levels. Lead is the main cause of childhood heavy metal poisoning, so it is important to consider the environment you grew up in.
Lead (Urine) - This 24-hour urine test is used to measure lead levels. Lead is the main cause of childhood heavy metal poisoning, so it is important to consider the environment you grew up in.
Lyme Disease & Total Immunoglobulin’s - This blood test is used to assist with the diagnosis of acute and later stages of infection by B. burgdorferi. In 2010, the CDC reported 94% of Lyme disease cases were reported from 12 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia & Wisconsin. Lyme disease has exceeded AIDS as one of the fastest growing infectious epidemics in our nation, with a cost to society measured at approximately $1 billion annually.
Lyme Disease & Western Blot - This blood test is used to identify antibodies specific for B. burgdorferi proteins. This test provides both IgM and IgG Western blot results. In 2010, the CDC reported 94% of Lyme disease cases were reported from 12 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia & Wisconsin. Lyme disease has exceeded AIDS as one of the fastest growing infectious epidemics in our nation, with a cost to society measured at approximately $1 billion annually.
Lyme Disease (Borrelia burgdorferi) PCR - This blood test is used to aid in the detection of Borrelia burgdorferi (Lyme disease). In 2010, the CDC reported 94% of Lyme disease cases were reported from 12 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia & Wisconsin. Lyme disease has exceeded AIDS as one of the fastest growing infectious epidemics in our nation, with a cost to society measured at approximately $1 billion annually.
Lyme Disease Antibodies, Including Reflex to Western Blot on Positives - According to Lab Corp, this blood test is the most analytical and comprehensive approach available for detecting antibodies specific for Lyme disease and provides the broadest time window for detection and confirmation.
Lyme Disease Antibodies, Total & IgM Responses - This blood test is used to aid in the diagnosis of acute or chronic infection with Lyme disease. In 2010, the CDC reported 94% of Lyme disease cases were reported from 12 states: Connecticut, Delaware, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New Hampshire, New York, Pennsylvania, Virginia & Wisconsin. Lyme disease has exceeded AIDS as one of the fastest growing infectious epidemics in our nation, with a cost to society measured at approximately $1 billion annually.
Manganese (Blood) - This blood test used to measure Manganese levels. Manganese is a cofactor in many enzyme systems involved in blood sugar control, energy metabolism and pituitary thyroid axis hormone function.
Manganese (Urine) - This urine test is used to measure Manganese levels. Manganese is a cofactor in many enzyme systems involved in blood sugar control, energy metabolism and pituitary thyroid axis hormone function.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) - Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHFR) is a blood test that checks for an inherited genetic variant that researchers call a polymorphism (SNP). This test checks for the two most common mutations: C677T and A1298C. Growing research demonstrates that up to half of all Americans may carry at least one genetic variation known as MTHFR.Test Code:
Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) Intact - This blood test measures Parathyroid Hormone (PTH) levels. Parathyroid hormone regulates the concentration of calcium and phosphorus in the blood and helps in the synthesis of Vitamin D.
Polychlorinated Biphenyls (PCBs) Chlorinated Pesticide Exposure Profile - This blood test is also known as Organochlorine Pesticides and PCB/Pesticide Exposure Profile and is used to monitor exposure to PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) and chlorinated pesticides.
Reverse Triiodothyronine (rT3) - This blood test measures levels of Reverse T3 (rT3). A Reverse Triiodothyronine (rT3) is a thyroid hormone that disrupts the activity of the active the form of thyroid hormone, triiodothyronine (T3).
Selenium (Blood) - This blood test measures selenium levels. Selenium protects genes from inflammatory disease processes such as dementia, stroke, heart disease, diabetes and asthma.
Selenium (Urine) - This 24-hour urine test measures selenium levels. Selenium is widely recognized as a key nutrient in cancer prevention and is a crucial cofactor for the conversion of T4 to T3 in healthy thyroid function.
Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin (SHBG) - This blood test measures Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin levels. Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin is also known as SHGB and Testosterone-binding Globulin (TeBG).
T-3 Uptake - This blood test measures T-3 Uptake levels. The results of a T-3 uptake are used as an indirect measure of bioavailable binding sites for the thyroid stimulatory hormones from the brain. T-3 uptake is not a measurement of T3 and should never be used alone.
Thyroglobulin, Quantitative - This blood test is used to measure thyroglobulin levels. Thyroglobulin is a protein that helps synthesize the production of thyroid hormones. Thyroglobulin may be used to help establish the cause of hyperthyroidism or to monitor the effectiveness of treatment for certain thyroid disorders.
Thyroid Antibodies: Combined Ab & TPO - This blood test is a combination test used to evaluate both, Thyroid Autoantibodies (TAA) and Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO ab).
Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) - This blood test measures Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) or thyrotropin levels. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) is the most common and sensitive marker of thyroid function.
Thyroxine (T4) - This blood test measures Thyroxine (T4) levels. Thyroxine (T4) is the major hormone produced and secreted by the thyroid gland.
Thyroxine (T4) Free, Direct (FT4) - This test measures Thyroxine T4 (Free). Thyroxine (T4) Free measures the free or unbound (bioavailable) thyroxine levels in the bloodstream.
Thyroxine Binding Globulin (TBG) - This blood test measures Thyroxine Binding Globulins (TBG) levels. Thyroxine Binding Globulins (TBG) are proteins used to transport thyroid hormones in the bloodstream.
Tissue Transglutaminase (tTG, IgA) - Transglutaminase IgA test is a highly specific blood test used to help identify Celiac disease.
Triiodothyronine (T3) - This blood test measures Triiodothyronine (T3) levels. Triiodothyronine is the most active form of the thyroid hormone and is primarily produced from the conversion of thyroxine in the peripheral tissue.
Triiodothyronine Free (FT3) - Triiodothyronine Free (FT3) is a blood test that measures the free or unbound (bioavailable) Free T3 hormone available to receptor sites. Free T3 is the most active form of the thyroid hormone and is primarily produced from the conversion of thyroxine in the peripheral tissue.
Vitamin A - E - Beta Profile - Vitamin A and E are both powerful antioxidants. Research continues to support the importance of adequate levels of antioxidants needed for healthy brain function.
Vitamin A & Carotene - This fasting blood test is used to evaluate Vitamin A & Carotene levels. Vitamin A is a fat-soluble vitamin also known as retinol. Vitamin A supports vision, skin growth and repair and bone growth. It also provides protection from diseases such as cancer, macular degeneration, atherosclerosis and Alzheimer's disease.
Vitamin A & E (Tocopherol) - Vitamin A & E are both fat-soluble vitamins. Vitamin A is also known as retinol. Vitamin A supports vision, skin growth and repair, as well as bone growth. It also provides protection from diseases such as cancer, atherosclerosis and macular degeneration. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that deactivates free radicals and is needed for circulation, tissue repair and healing.
Vitamin B12 - Vitamin B12 is necessary for red blood cell production and neural function. A Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause anemia, neurologic disorders and an elevation in the inflammatory marker homocysteine, which has been implicated in Alzheimer's disease.
Vitamin B12 & Folate - This blood test measures both Vitamin B12 and Folate levels. All of the water-soluble B vitamins work as a team to help promote healthy nerves, skin, eyes, hair, liver, muscle tone and cardiovascular function. Adequate levels help to protect from the mental strain caused by depression and anxiety.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) - This blood test measures Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) levels. Vitamin B6 is needed to make red blood cells and maintain a healthy immune and nervous system.
Vitamin C - This blood test measures Vitamin C levels. Vitamin C is a powerful water-soluble antioxidant that boosts the immune system by offering protection to proteins, carbohydrates, and helps shield DNA from free radical damage.
Vitamin D 25-Hydroxy - This blood test measures Vitamin D 25 (OH) levels. Vitamin D is needed for strong bones and teeth, Vitamin D helps your body absorb the amount of calcium and phosphorus it needs. It also has other roles in the body, including modulation of cell growth, neuromuscular and immune function, and reduction of inflammation.
Vitamin K1 - This blood test measures Vitamin K1 levels. Vitamin K1 is also known as phylloquinone or phytomenadione. Vitamin K1 is necessary for the production of circulating coagulation factors.
Zinc - This blood test measures Zinc levels. Zinc is a crucial trace element required for the growth and healthy development of all living organisms. Zinc deficiency can lead to immune system dysfunction and impairments in growth, cognitive dysfunction, poor carbohydrate metabolism and hormonal function.
Basic Food Sensitivity and Allergy (IgG) Panel - Certain proteins in foods may cause an immune response, commonly known as an allergy or intolerance. This test is used to detect allergen specific IgG antibodies to 8 common foods known to instigate an immune response: Wheat, Gluten, Milk (Cow), Eggs (Whole), Soy, Almond, Peanut and Corn.
Resources
Izabella Wentz, Pharm.D., FASCP is a passionate, innovative and solution focused clinical pharmacist. She has had a passion for health care from a very early age, inspired by her mother, Dr. Marta Nowosadzka, MD. Izabella has recently published a book and is available through Amazon.com. The title of her book is "Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: Lifestyle Interventions for Finding and Treating the Root Cause". Izabella's book is a groundbreaking manual that provides an up to date roadmap to help identify and remove the triggers associated with causing thyroid autoimmunity. Izabella is available for personal consultations and can be contacted through her web site and blog listed below:
www.thyroidpharmacist.com
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Last Reviewed on 10/12/2013
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