Health Tip: Differing Thyroid Tests

(HealthDay News) — The thyroid is an endocrine gland that makes hormones and helps regulate bodily activities, such as how fast you burn calories and how fast your heart beats.

Doctors may suggest a thyroid test if they suspect the gland is overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism).

The U.S. National Library of Medicine says potential tests may include:

  • TSH – Measures thyroid-stimulating hormone. This is considered the most accurate measure of thyroid activity.
  • T3 and T4 – Measure different thyroid hormones.
  • TSI – Measures thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin.
  • Antithyroid antibody test – Measures antibodies (markers in the blood).