Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by visible white patches all over the skin. Beyond the physical complications, the condition is also known to affect people’s mental well-being, leading to issues with self-esteem and confidence. Owing to the fact that vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder, a lot of its symptoms often coincide with other …
Vitiligo is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by visible white patches all over the skin. Beyond the physical complications, the condition is also known to affect people’s mental well-being, leading to issues with self-esteem and confidence.
Owing to the fact that vitiligo is an autoimmune disorder, a lot of its symptoms often coincide with other autoimmune disorders, including thyroid complications. This explains the need for comprehensive thyroid function tests to determine the patient’s proper diagnosis of vitiligo.
If you are curious to understand the correlation between the importance of thyroid function tests and their influence on vitiligo diagnosis, we have curated a comprehensive guide for you.
Understanding Thyroid Function and Its Connection to Vitiligo
The thyroid gland, which is present in the neck produces hormones responsible for the regulation of metabolism, growth, and development. The key hormones that the thyroid gland produces are thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), which is secreted by the pituitary gland, is what regulates and governs the proper secretion of the associated thyroid hormones in the body.
Autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Graves’ disease are common in individuals with vitiligo. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis leads to hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid), while Graves’ disease causes hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).
Since both conditions can significantly impact overall health, individuals with vitiligo must undergo thyroid function tests regularly.
What are the Varying Thyroid Function Tests (TFTs)?
Our specialists at Kayakalp Global prioritize a comprehensive approach to diagnosis. We leave no stones unturned, primarily because we aim to identify the root cause behind the symptoms instead of focusing on treating the symptoms superficially.
This explains why our priority is to rule out any potential complication associated with causing the symptoms related to one’s vitiligo.
Following are some of the major elements of the thyroid function test:
TSH: This test is often considered the most crucial as it reflects the pituitary gland’s response to thyroid hormone levels.
Free T4: This measures the circulating amount of free T4, the inactive form of the hormone readily converted into the active T3.
Free T3 (optional): This test may be included to assess thyroid function more comprehensively, particularly if TSH levels are abnormal.
One of the most common misconceptions is that thyroid function tests are markers of vitiligo diagnosis, which isn’t the case at all. In fact, TFTs are usually used to establish associated autoimmune complications in the body that a patient with vitiligo could be suffering from.
In most cases, vitiligo patients exhibit symptoms related to thyroid disorder, which goes undiagnosed. Hence, prescribing comprehensive TFTs alongside vitiligo diagnosis is necessary to identify potential complications and implement early interventions to ensure the patient is in good physical and emotional health.
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What is the Significance of Thyroid Function Tests in Vitiligo Diagnosis?
As we mentioned above, TFTs are not a diagnostic tool for vitiligo. The comprehensive diagnosis of vitiligo primarily depends on the symptoms the patient is experiencing and their medical history. One of the reasons why we prescribe thyroid function tests to our vitiligo patients at Kayakalp Global for the following reasons:
Identifying underlying thyroid dysfunction
If a person with vitiligo exhibits symptoms suggestive of thyroid problems, such as fatigue, weight changes, or difficulty regulating body temperature, TFTs can help confirm or rule out a thyroid disorder.
Monitoring thyroid function
If someone with vitiligo has a co-existing thyroid condition, TFTs may be used to monitor their thyroid hormone levels over time, ensuring proper medication management.
Contrary to popular belief, prescribing TFTs is more of a precautionary tale than a diagnostic tool.
Also Read:- Blood Tests for Vitiligo: Normal Level, Procedure, and Cost
How are the Thyroid Function Tests Performed?
TFTs are standard blood tests. There are no complicated steps involved, except for the fact that a phlebotomist collects your blood sample and sends it to the laboratory for further testing.
Usually, thyroid function tests should be done on an empty stomach. So, if you are giving your sample, ensure that you do it first thing in the morning to ensure the results are accurate.
During the sample collection, the technician starts by disinfecting the site on the skin from where the blood will be drawn. Usually, a syringe is inserted directly into the vein to draw the blood sample, which is then transferred into a testing vial and sent to the laboratory for further testing.
What are the Normal Ranges of the Thyroid Function Tests?
As previously mentioned, the thyroid function tests have three major elements: TSH, T4, and T3.
Here’s a breakdown of their normal ranges:
TSH – 0.4 to 4.0 milli-international units per liter (mIU/L).
T4 – 0.8 to 2.0 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL).
T3 – 2.3 to 4.1 picograms per milliliter (pg/mL).
Note: In some cases, you might be prescribed the Thyroid Antibodies Test, which measures the presence of antibodies that may attack the thyroid gland. The most common antibodies include thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) and thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb). A normal reading of this test will either show very low levels of the antibodies or none at all.
What is the Cost of Thyroid Function Test for Vitiligo?
The cost of thyroid function tests can be analyzed in two ways – individually or as a package.
If you get a thyroid function test package, the average cost is usually under INR 1000. However, if you get the three tests separately for TSH, T3/T4, and Thyroid antibodies, the overall cost can vary from INR 300-INR 500 for each test.
The cost of the test usually depends on where you are getting it, the city, and the specific diagnostic centre you are getting it from.
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Prioritize Comprehensive Vitiligo Diagnosis with Kayakalp Global
Thyroid function tests are vital to the diagnostic and monitoring process for individuals with vitiligo. Given the increased risk of thyroid disorders in this population, regular screening and prompt management are essential.
Vitiligo already impacts our patients physically and emotionally, and thyroid disorders can often exacerbate the patient’s overall well-being further. So, to ensure the optimal health of our patients, we prioritize comprehensive testing and monitoring of their thyroid health alongside ongoing treatment for vitiligo in india.
Through vigilant testing and management, individuals with vitiligo can maintain better overall health and mitigate the risks associated with thyroid dysfunction and autoimmune complexities.
If you are struggling with vitiligo and potential symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, kindly schedule a consultation with Kayakalp Global. Contact us at +91-9599794433 for further details.
