At times we receive laboratory results which just don't seem to reflect what we expect. Some physicians are unconcerned when results are "within normal limits". But "normal" doesn't always apply to thyroid cancer patients when we no longer have a thyroid, leaving us to explore possible causes and solutions ourselves These are some things to… Continue reading Questionable Lab Results
Category: Testing
Update on Free T3 Testing
There are a few circumstances that may affect Free T3 (triiodothyronine) test results. The following two test descriptions from LabCorp, a major nationwide diagnostic laboratory, indicate conditions which may interfere with testing and when the Dialysis and LC/MS-MS may be preferred. Biotin may interfere with Free T3 and other thyroid tests. Thyroid antibodies may interfere… Continue reading Update on Free T3 Testing
Basic T3 Startup
The first step to adding T3 to our thyroid hormone replacement regimen following total thyroidectomy (TT) is understanding what T3 is and how it works. The two thyroid hormones are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). A healthy thyroid produces mostly T4 and smaller amounts of T3. This production is controlled by a “negative feedback loop”… Continue reading Basic T3 Startup
TSH Suppression
There are two primary dimensions in follow up treatment for thyroid cancer. The first is focused on preventing and identifying recurrence while the second, often overlooked in the quest to "beat cancer" is supporting your Quality of Life (QoL). Some endocrinologists and other providers may not always be aware of the need to keep TSH… Continue reading TSH Suppression
Tg Antibodies Rising
This is information I compiled related to questions concerning Thyroglobulin Antibodies (TgAb) remaining elevated or increasing following total thyroidectomy despite having low or undetectable Thyroglobulin (Tg) and whether TgAb can be used to detect recurrence of thyroid cancer.
Thyroid Cancer Test and ICD Codes
Test and ICD Codes - Current as of 15 December, 2021These test and ICD codes can be helpful if your tests are being ordered by a primary care provider or an endocrinologist who does not specialize with thyroid cancer patients. Lab Corphttps://www.labcorp.com/test-menu/search Order CodeOrder Code NameResult CodeResult Code NameUnits224576TSH+Free T44264 19745TSH T4,Free(Direct)uIU/mL ng/dL10389Triiodothyronine (T3), Free10389Triiodothyronine… Continue reading Thyroid Cancer Test and ICD Codes
What Blood Tests Should I Request?
As thyroid cancer patients, when things are not going well the first place we tend to look is to our thyroid hormone replacement (THR) meds. Just as our thyroid interacted with every aspect of our physical and mental health, metabolism and daily activity, we need to remain aware of how our overall health works withn… Continue reading What Blood Tests Should I Request?
Falsely Elevated Thyroglobulin – HAMA
Serum Thyroglobulin (Tg) is the primary tumor marker measured postoperatively to monitor for recurrence of thyroid cancer. Tg concentrations reflect the mass, or amount, of residual thyroid tissue — remnant or tumor. An unexpected elevated Tg result which is not consistent with clinical findings and history is distressing for the patient and can lead to… Continue reading Falsely Elevated Thyroglobulin – HAMA
Basic Testing Information
Thyroid Level Testing for Thyroid Cancer Patients This is a basic outline of the thyroid tests most frequently asked about and are needed to properly monitor thyroid hormone replacement (THR) levels for thyroid cancer patients. TSH - Thyroid Stimulating Hormone: is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland, a small organ located below the brain,… Continue reading Basic Testing Information
Tg Testing with Antibodies
Thyroglobulin Testing When You Have Positive Antibodies (TgAb} Thyroglobulin (Tg) is produced only by thyroid tissue and is the primary marker for follow up thyroid cancer detection after total thyroidectomy. It is not generally used after a partial or hemi-thyroidectomy as the remaining thyroid lobe will still produce normal levels of thyroglobulin. If you have thyroglobulin… Continue reading Tg Testing with Antibodies
Thyroid Cancer Advocates 