Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
8
Duration
10 min
Results
48 hours
Thyroid function screening with TSH — the primary gatekeeper test for thyroid disorders. At €14.57 (plus blood draw), an affordable first-line screen. Normal TSH effectively rules out most thyroid dysfunction; abnormal TSH triggers follow-up with free T3/T4.
TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is the most sensitive single marker for thyroid dysfunction. Produced by the pituitary gland, TSH rises when thyroid hormone output drops (hypothyroidism) and falls when thyroid hormone is excessive (hyperthyroidism). This inverse relationship makes TSH the optimal screening test — changes in TSH typically precede measurable changes in free T4 by months to years. The reference range for TSH is approximately 0.4–4.0 mIU/L, though the optimal range for most adults is 0.5–2.5 mIU/L. Values in the upper-normal range (2.5–4.0) may warrant monitoring, particularly in the presence of thyroid antibodies or symptoms. Hypothyroidism (elevated TSH) affects 4–5% of the European population and presents with fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, dry skin, and cognitive slowing. Subclinical hypothyroidism (TSH 4–10, normal free T4) is even more common and may benefit from treatment in certain age groups. Hyperthyroidism (suppressed TSH) is less common but more acutely dangerous, causing tachycardia, weight loss, anxiety, tremor, and heat intolerance. Graves disease is the most common cause. At €14.57 plus blood draw, this is a practical annual screen. If TSH is abnormal, Mein Labor Leipzig offers extended thyroid profiles including free T3, free T4, and thyroid antibodies.
Key Details
- Biomarker
- TSH
- Results
- 1-2 days
- Total cost
- ~€19
Who Is This For?
Thyroid screening, fatigue investigation, weight changes, family history of thyroid disease
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required. Morning draw preferred as TSH follows a circadian rhythm (peaks early morning).
Panel Categories
Biomarkers Tested
8The active form of thyroid hormone responsible for regulating metabolism, energy, and body temperature. Free T3 is converted from T4 in tissues and is three to four times more potent than T4.
The unbound, active form of the main thyroid hormone T4. Free T4 directly reflects thyroid gland output and is used alongside TSH to diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders.
Free triiodothyronine; high levels indicate hyperthyroidism, low levels hypothyroidism.
Free thyroxine; high levels indicate hyperthyroidism, low levels hypothyroidism.
A group of proteins in blood including antibodies (immunoglobulins), transport proteins, and enzymes. Elevated globulin can indicate chronic infection, inflammation, or blood cancers. Calculated by subtracting albumin from total protein.
An inactive form of T3 produced when the body converts T4. Elevated reverse T3 can occur during illness, stress, or caloric restriction and may indicate impaired thyroid hormone activation despite normal TSH levels.
Antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme essential for thyroid hormone production. Positive TPO antibodies indicate autoimmune thyroid disease, most commonly Hashimoto's thyroiditis, even before symptoms or TSH changes appear.
The primary screening test for thyroid function. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland to regulate thyroid hormone production. High TSH indicates an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low TSH suggests an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
€14.57 for TSH + €4.19 blood draw = €18.76 total. GOÄ 1.0x rate. Extended thyroid profile with FT3, FT4, antibodies available at additional cost.
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood (venous draw)
- Duration
- 10 min
- Results
- 48 hours