Thyroid blood panel

The thyroid panel helps to clarify suspicion of an underactive or overactive thyroid and autoimmune thyroid disease. The panel includes tests for thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free T4 hormone, and TPO antibodies. If you have symptoms, it is always recommended to consult a doctor.

Text reviewed by specialist:

dr Andreas Abel

General practitioner

Published

Text updated

When to see a specialist

  • Constant fatigue and lack of energy
  • Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
  • Sensitivity to cold or intolerance to heat
  • Dry skin and thinning hair
  • Mood swings, anxiety, or low mood
  • Constipation or more frequent bowel movements
  • Palpitations or a feeling of an irregular heartbeat
  • Difficulty concentrating and memory problems
  • Menstrual cycle disorders
  • A feeling of pressure or fullness in the neck area
  • A family history of thyroid disease
  • Existing or suspected autoimmune disease

Common symptoms

If you experience symptoms, it is always recommended to consult a doctor to determine the possible cause of your symptoms and whether further examinations are needed. Consider getting tested if you have unexplained symptoms that may, among other things, indicate a thyroid disorder:

  • Changes in the condition of the skin, hair, and nails

    Hair loss, brittle nails, dry skin, or paleness may also indicate abnormalities found in blood tests.
  • Cold sensitivity or heat intolerance

    Normal temperature feels uncomfortable or difficult to tolerate.
  • Constipation

    If bowel movements are infrequent and difficult.
  • Infertility

    If there are problems with conception.

How to prepare for your appointment

  • Bring your ID card or another form of identification.
  • Thyroid tests should be taken in the morning before 10 a.m. You can eat your usual breakfast in the morning.
  • It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids during the 24 hours before the test.
  • Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that are easy to roll up.
  • Avoid coffee, energy drinks, and smoking before giving the sample. Otherwise, no special preparation is needed unless you have been told otherwise.

What to expect during your appointment

Booking

Book a suitable time for the blood test in the Meliva self-service portal or by calling the short number 1525.

Registration

Upon arrival, register at the reception.

Blood sample

A nurse will take a blood sample from a vein.

Lab analysis

Your TSH, free T4, and TPO antibodies will be measured in the lab.

Results

The results are usually ready within 1 working day and are visible in the Meliva self-service portal and the national health portal.

Interpreting results

To evaluate the results, it is always recommended to book a consultation with a doctor at the Meliva Digital Clinic or a regular appointment.

Specialists providing this service

  • Aleksandra Levitskaja

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Aleksandra Skripka

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre

  • Alina Maspanova

    Nurse

    Kvartal Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health

  • Alisa Aleksejeva

    Nurse

    Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • Anastasia Grudkina

    Nurse

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Mobile occupational health examination

  • dr Andreas Abel

    General practitioner

    Jalgpalli kliinik, Ülemiste Health Centre, Rävala Clinic – Specialist Medical Care and Occupational Health, Digikliinik

Payment & Appointment Info

Prices

Tallinn

Special care
Service Price
Blood thyroid panel The package includes one free consultation with a Digital Clinic doctor. 42 €

Everywhere else in Estonia

Special care
Service Price
Blood thyroid panel The package includes one free consultation with a Digital Clinic doctor. 42 €
Payment methods

Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Preventive Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

With a doctor’s referral, Meliva Health Insurance covers this service under Outpatient Care coverage. Check your personal coverage limits in the ERGO app.

Referral

You can book this service as a self-paying patient without a doctor’s referral.

Clinics offering this service

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the thyroid panel measure?

The thyroid panel includes TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone), free T4 hormone, and TPO antibodies. These are used to assess thyroid function and the possibility of autoimmune thyroid disease.

Do I need to fast for a thyroid blood test?

Fasting is not necessary, but products containing biotin should be avoided. Biotin can cause false-positive or false-negative results, in particular showing seemingly low TSH and higher thyroid hormone values. The tests must be taken in the morning before 10 a.m.

Why is it recommended to give the sample in the morning?

The TSH level fluctuates throughout the day. A sample taken in the morning helps to better compare the results, especially if the test is repeated.

Does an elevated level of TPO antibodies definitely mean I have a disease?

Not always. TPO antibodies indicate the possibility of an autoimmune thyroid disease, but the need for treatment depends on the assessment of TSH, free T4, symptoms, and the overall clinical picture.

What should I do if my results are outside the normal range?

Consult a doctor. A single lab result does not always provide a final diagnosis; the doctor will evaluate the results together with your symptoms, medications, repeat tests, and, if necessary, further studies.

Is the thyroid panel suitable for prevention?

It can be used as part of a health assessment, but a clear benefit from routine screening in all asymptomatic adults has not been convincingly proven. The test is most justified in cases of symptoms, a family history, or on a doctor’s recommendation.

Are underactive and overactive thyroid treatable?

Most thyroid function disorders are treatable or can be well-managed, but treatment depends on whether it is an underactive or overactive thyroid, an autoimmune disease, or another cause.