Test Directory

Test Code
TSHRF
Test Name
TSH With Reflex T4, Free
CPT Codes
84443
Included Tests
  • Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)

Reflexed when appropriate:

  • T4, Free
Expected Turnaround Time
1 day
Clinical Utility

Can be used to diagnose thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).

Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Types: Serum or Plasma

Collection Containers:

  • Gold Top, Serum Separator
  • Light Green Top, Plasma Separator
  • Red Top, Separator

Minimum Acceptable Volume: 2.4 mL

Processing and Submission Instructions

Separator tubes: Contains clot activator and gel for separating serum from cells, but not anticoagulant. Separate serum from cells as soon as the clot has formed (30 minutes). If specimen is centrifuged before clotting is complete, a fibrin clot will form on top of the cell. This may cause the gel barrier to not be intact and could cause improper separation of serum and cells, possibly affecting test results.

Tubes with anticoagulant: To ensure accurate test results, all tubes containing an anticoagulant or preservative must be allowed to fill completely. Attempts to force more blood into the tube by exerting pressure, as in collection with a syringe, will result in damage to the red cells (hemolysis).

Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory refrigerated.

Stability Requirements

Refrigerated

48 Hrs

Methodology
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Reference Intervals
Performing Location
Hazleton Hospital, Pocono Hospital, Redeemer Health, Roble Road Core Laboratory, Schuylkill Hospital
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily