Understanding your Thyroid Function Panel (TSH + Free T4 + Free T3) results
A thyroid panel reports three hormones that work together. TSH, made by the pituitary gland, tells the thyroid how much hormone to produce. Free T4 (thyroxine) is the main hormone the thyroid releases; free means it is not bound to carrier proteins and is available to the body. Free T3 (triiodothyronine) is the most active form and is mostly made from T4 in the tissues. Read together, the three values help a doctor tell whether a problem starts in the thyroid itself or in the pituitary.
The ranges on this page are commonly quoted adult reference ranges. Laboratories set their own, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges
>>>| Parameter | Reference range | Unit | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| TSH | 0.4–4.0 | mIU/L | |
| Free T4 (thyroxine) | 0.8–1.8 | ng/dL | |
| Free T3 (triiodothyronine) | 2.3–4.2 | pg/mL | |
| Anti-TPO antibody, if ordered | < 35 | IU/mL | Antibody linked to Hashimoto's thyroiditis |
What a high Thyroid Function Panel (TSH + Free T4 + Free T3) result can mean
High TSH with low Free T4 is the pattern of overt primary hypothyroidism: the thyroid is underactive and the pituitary is compensating. High TSH with Free T4 in range is called subclinical hypothyroidism. High Free T4 and Free T3 with low TSH is the pattern of overt hyperthyroidism, seen in Graves' disease or with an overactive nodule. Raised anti-TPO antibodies point to autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's).
What a low Thyroid Function Panel (TSH + Free T4 + Free T3) result can mean
Low TSH with Free T4 and Free T3 in range is called subclinical hyperthyroidism. Low Free T4 with low or normal TSH can mean the pituitary is not stimulating the thyroid enough, a pattern called central or secondary hypothyroidism. Low Free T3 with normal TSH and Free T4 can be seen during serious illness or after major surgery and does not usually reflect a thyroid disorder.
How a doctor reads the result
A thyroid panel is read as a pattern, so a single value outside its range has to be interpreted with the other two. A doctor will also take account of symptoms, pregnancy, medicines and any thyroid treatment. Discuss the result with your doctor.
Follow-up a doctor may arrange
Depending on the pattern, a doctor may repeat the panel, add thyroid antibody tests or arrange a thyroid ultrasound, and may refer you to an endocrinologist. Treatment for thyroid conditions is prescribed and adjusted by a doctor.
Related tests
>>>Thyroid Panel (TSH, FT3, FT4): preparation and listed prices
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood. The Thyroid Panel test is listed at AED 110 to AED 200 across 4 labs and services: AED 110 on the Smart Care Polyclinic website (Dubai only), AED 149 on the DarDoc website, AED 150 on the Healthchecks360 website and AED 200 on the Unilabs website.
Sources: Prices on this page are the ones each lab or service publishes on its own website, read between 13 October 2026 and 7 November 2026. Zavis has published prices from 6 of the 13 labs and services it lists: of the other 7, 6 do not publish per-test prices and 1 website could not be read. The websites do not all say whether VAT or a collection fee is added to a listed price, so confirm the price with the lab before you book. How Zavis sources prices.
Listed prices for the Thyroid Panel test, as each site names itFrequently asked questions
What are the commonly quoted reference ranges for Thyroid Function Panel (TSH + Free T4 + Free T3)?
Commonly quoted adult reference ranges are: TSH: 0.4–4.0 mIU/L; Free T4 (thyroxine): 0.8–1.8 ng/dL; Free T3 (triiodothyronine): 2.3–4.2 pg/mL; Anti-TPO antibody, if ordered: < 35 IU/mL. Laboratories set their own ranges, so the range printed on your report is the one that applies to your result.
What can a high Thyroid Function Panel (TSH + Free T4 + Free T3) result mean?
High TSH with low Free T4 is the pattern of overt primary hypothyroidism: the thyroid is underactive and the pituitary is compensating. High TSH with Free T4 in range is called subclinical hypothyroidism. High Free T4 and Free T3 with low TSH is the pattern of overt hyperthyroidism, seen in Graves' disease or with an overactive nodule. Raised anti-TPO antibodies point to autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's).
Is fasting needed for Thyroid Function Panel (TSH + Free T4 + Free T3)?
No fasting is needed. Sample type: blood.
How often are Thyroid Function Panel (TSH + Free T4 + Free T3) results rechecked?
There is no single interval that suits everyone. A doctor can advise whether and how often to test, based on your health, any treatment and your earlier results.
Medical disclaimer: The information on this page is provided for general educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Reference ranges are general guidelines. Your doctor will interpret your results in the context of your full clinical picture, symptoms, and medical history. If you have concerns about your test results, always consult a licensed healthcare professional. Do not delay seeking medical advice or disregard professional medical guidance because of information on this page.