Your thyroid produces hormones that are essential for metabolic processes and body growth. The thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is crucial for the production of the hormones. TSH stimulates the production of T3 (triiodothyronine) and T4 (thyroxine), which regulate your metabolism, growth and body temperature. Thyroid hormone disorders can be associated with reduced performance, weight and mood swings. Taken together, the three values can provide conclusions about the function of your thyroid gland.
FT3 or free triiodothyronine is an important marker in the assessment of thyroid function. An FT3 test is done to evaluate thyroid function and to detect disorders in thyroid function, such as overactive (hyperthyroidism) or underactive (hypothyroidism). A low FT3 level can indicate an underactive thyroid, while a high FT3 level can indicate an overactive one. An FT3 test can also be used in monitoring thyroid treatment and thyroid hormone adjustment.