What it measures
All the thyroxine (T4) in the blood, both the large part bound to carrier proteins and the tiny free part. T4 is the main hormone the thyroid releases.
Why people test it
- Part of some full thyroid panels, alongside TSH and free T4.
- Used to check how much hormone the thyroid is making, though free T4 is the more common test in the UK.
Typical range
Ranges vary by lab, method, age and sex, and your report shows the lab's own range.
Finger-prick or vein?
Offered as a vein draw only, as part of larger panels that need more blood than a finger-prick gives.
Carrier protein levels change in pregnancy and with oestrogen in the contraceptive pill or HRT, which moves total T4 without changing the free hormone.