Check the test names: TSH, Free T4, Free T3, Total T4, Total T3, Anti-TPO, Anti-Tg, TRAb
Compare each result with the reference range printed on the report
Look first at TSH
Low TSH may suggest hyperthyroidism
High TSH may suggest hypothyroidism
Check Free T4 with TSH
Low Free T4 with high TSH may suggest hypothyroidism
High Free T4 with low TSH may suggest hyperthyroidism
Check Free T3 if included
High T3 with low TSH may suggest T3 thyrotoxicosis
Review thyroid antibody tests if included
High Anti-TPO may suggest autoimmune thyroid disease
High TRAb may suggest Graves’ disease
Check whether the report says normal, low, or high for each value
Compare results with your symptoms
Ask your doctor to interpret the full report together with your history
Do not rely on one test alone
Repeat testing may be needed if results are borderline or unclear