Total T3 (triiodothyronine) is a hormone generated by converting T4 to T3 in the body’s tissue. T3 is the active thyroid hormone and is necessary for normal body metabolism.
Methodology
Chemiluminescence immunoassay
- Low Total T3 levels are consistent with hypothyroidism or inadequate thyroid hormone replacement.1-3
- High Total T3 levels are consistent with either hyperthyroidism or excess thyroid hormone replacement.1-3
- High doses of biotin (> 5 mg/day) may interfere with assay results. Patient assumed to be refraining from biotin supplementation for at least 3 days prior to blood draw.
References:
- Goodman N, Cobin RH. Reproductive disorders. In: Camacho PM, Gharib H, Sizemore GW, eds. Evidence-Based Endocrinology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. 2012:190-228.
- Castro MR, Gharib H. Thyroid disorders. In: Camacho PM, Gharib H, Sizemore GW, eds. Evidence-Based Endocrinology. 3rd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Lippincott Williams & Wilkins. 2012:43-80.
- Garber JR, Cobin RH, Gharib H, et al. Clinical practice guidelines for hypothyroidism in adults: cosponsored by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists and the American Thyroid Association. Endocr Pract. 2012;18(6):988-1028.
