Thyroid test in Bangalore: TSH, T3, T4 explained and where to go
What each thyroid value means, when to order a full profile vs TSH alone, fasting rules, and typical Bengaluru prices.
Thyroid disorders are common in Bangalore — clinic data suggests roughly one in eight adults in urban Karnataka has a measurable thyroid abnormality, with hypothyroidism the most frequent. The right test depends on the question your doctor is asking.
TSH alone vs full profile
TSH (thyroid-stimulating hormone) is the first-line screening test. It rises when the thyroid is underactive (hypothyroidism) and falls when it is overactive (hyperthyroidism). A normal TSH in an otherwise asymptomatic adult is usually enough — no need for the full panel.
T3 and T4 (free or total) are added when:
- TSH is abnormal and the doctor wants to know whether the gland is failing or being suppressed by something else.
- You have symptoms (weight change, fatigue, palpitations, hair loss) and the doctor wants a fuller picture.
- You are on thyroxine (Eltroxin / Thyronorm) and need monitoring.
Anti-TPO antibodies are added when autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's) is suspected — common in young women with rising TSH.
Reference ranges (most Bangalore labs)
| Test | Typical reference range |
|---|---|
| TSH | 0.4 - 4.0 mIU/L |
| Free T4 | 0.8 - 1.8 ng/dL |
| Free T3 | 2.3 - 4.2 pg/mL |
| Anti-TPO | < 35 IU/mL |
Pregnancy has its own narrower TSH range (typically < 2.5 mIU/L in the first trimester). Ask for trimester-specific reference values.
Do I need to fast?
No. Thyroid tests do not require fasting. However, if you take thyroxine, draw the sample before your morning dose — the tablet contains T4 and will artificially raise the reading for several hours. Biotin supplements (often in hair/nail tablets) can interfere with the assay — stop them 48 hours before the test.
Bangalore prices (2026)
| Test | Typical Bangalore range |
|---|---|
| TSH only | ₹150 - ₹500 |
| Thyroid profile (TSH + T3 + T4) | ₹400 - ₹1,200 |
| Free T3 / Free T4 add-on | ₹250 - ₹500 each |
| Anti-TPO antibodies | ₹600 - ₹1,200 |
Most NABL labs across Koramangala, HSR Layout, Indiranagar, BTM, Jayanagar, Whitefield and Marathahalli offer thyroid panels with home sample collection, reports the next day.
When to retest
- New diagnosis of hypothyroidism: 6-8 weeks after starting or changing thyroxine dose.
- Stable on thyroxine: once every 6-12 months.
- Subclinical hypothyroidism (raised TSH, normal T4) without symptoms: repeat in 3 months before treating.
- Pregnancy: every trimester at minimum.
Common Bengaluru-specific pitfalls
- Wrong sample timing: many labs in IT corridors (Whitefield, Outer Ring Road) draw between 8-10 am, after patients have already taken Eltroxin. Always check.
- Reflex testing: some labs add Free T4 automatically if TSH is abnormal. Make sure you aren't being billed twice.
- Generic vs branded: a "thyroid profile" should mean TSH + T3 + T4 (not just TSH). Confirm before paying.
What to do with an abnormal result
A single abnormal TSH is not a diagnosis. Repeat the test in 6-8 weeks, ideally at the same lab and at the same time of day, before starting medication. Bring both reports to a physician or endocrinologist.
Find a verified centre near you on Locatemycentre — filter by neighbourhood, home-visit availability, and price.
Informational only; not medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis or treatment.