Laboratory Medicine Program

Triiodothyronine, free (Free T3)
(T3, free, FT3)

Clinical Decription:
Triiodothyronine (3,5,3?-L-triiodothyronine) is a hormone synthesized and secreted from the thyroid gland, and formed by peripheral deiodination of thyroxine (T4). T3 and T4 are secreted into the circulation in response to thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and play an important role in regulating metabolism. The T3 and T4 secretions are regulated by negative feedback mechanism involving the thyroid gland, pituitary and hypothalamus. In the circulation, 99.7% of T3 is reversibly bound to transport proteins, primarily thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) and to lesser extent albumin and prealbumin. The remaining T3 does not bind to the transport proteins, but is free in the circulation. This unbound fraction of the total T3 concentration is free triidothyronine (free T3, FT3). Unbound T3 is metabolically active. Free T3 levels correlate with T3 secretion and metabolism. In hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism, free T3 levels parallel changes in total T3 levels. However, measuring free T3 useful when altered levels of total T3 occur due to changes in T3 binding proteins, especially TBG. TBG levels remain relatively constant in healthy individuals, but certain conditions such as normal pregnancy and steroid therapy can alter these levels. In these conditions, free T3 levels are unchanged, while total T3 levels parallel the changes in TBG.

Method: Chemiluminescent ; Abbott

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
2.6 - 5.7 pmol/L

Specimen Type: serum
Volume: 5 mL (minimum: 1 mL)

Shipping: 4C

Special Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot sample.

Testing Schedule(s): Daily.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

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