Test ID: BU-744 | Sample Type: Dried Blood Spot + Dried Urine | Technology: LC-MS/MS & ICP-MS | Results Time: 3–5 Working Days After Laboratory Receives Sample | Laboratory: ZRT Laboratory – CLIA Certified | Hormone Specialist Doctor Interpretation: Included | Suitable For: Adults and Children | Collect Sample At Home: No Clinic Visit Required
What Does This Test Measure?
Thyroid function (TSH, Free T3, Free T4, Total T4, TPO Antibodies, Thyroglobulin Antibodies) and urinary Iodine with Creatinine — covering both thyroid hormone output and iodine status in a single at-home kit.
Related Symptoms
Fatigue, unexplained weight gain, brain fog, poor concentration, low mood, cold intolerance, hair loss, dry skin, poor sleep, or known/suspected hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
Who Should Consider This Test?
- Persistent fatigue or low energy that does not improve with rest
- Unexplained weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Brain fog, poor concentration, or low mood
- Cold intolerance, dry skin, or hair thinning
- Poor sleep or unrefreshing sleep
- Known or suspected hypothyroidism or Hashimoto's thyroiditis
- Symptoms that persist despite a "normal" TSH result
- Those with dietary risk factors for iodine deficiency (e.g. avoiding dairy, fish, or seafood)
- Those concerned about thyroid health and wanting a comprehensive at-home assessment
- Anyone wanting to understand whether iodine deficiency may be contributing to thyroid symptoms
Why This Test Is Particularly Important
- Standard NHS thyroid tests measure TSH only — missing Free T3, Free T4, and both thyroid antibodies that are essential for identifying Hashimoto's, cortisol-driven T3 suppression, and early thyroid insufficiency
- Iodine deficiency is one of the most common correctable causes of an underactive thyroid yet is almost never included in standard GP testing — this test measures both thyroid function and iodine status together
- TPO and Tg antibodies detect Hashimoto's autoimmune thyroid disease years before TSH becomes abnormal — early detection is only possible through direct antibody testing
- Urinary iodine assessed by ICP-MS is the internationally recommended gold standard for iodine status — more accurate and clinically meaningful than blood iodine measurement
- Measuring thyroid markers and iodine together in a single kit identifies both the functional status of the thyroid and the nutritional root cause — something no standard panel provides
Not Sure Which Test Is Right for You?
Email us at info@hormonelab.co.uk with your gender, age, symptoms, medications, and any current treatments. We will forward your enquiry to our doctors and respond within 24 hours.
How It Works
- Order your kit — delivered to your door
- Collect samples at home: finger-prick blood spot + urine strip
- Post to ZRT Laboratory using prepaid instructions
- Receive your full report by email within 3–5 working days
What You Receive
- Clear graphics and easy-to-read values for all markers
- Written interpretation by a Hormone Specialist PhD Doctor
- Recommended next steps based on your results
- Laboratory fee included — no hidden charges
Why We Use ZRT Laboratory
All testing is performed by ZRT Laboratory — a globally recognised, CLIA-certified diagnostic laboratory founded in 1998 by Dr. David Zava, PhD. ZRT has performed over 11 million tests and is trusted by healthcare professionals in 96+ countries.
- Pioneers of at-home dried blood spot (DBS) hormone testing
- Advanced LC-MS/MS and ICP-MS technology for clinical-grade accuracy
- Qualified for the CDC Hormone Standardization (HoSt) Program for testosterone and estradiol
- Personalised reference ranges based on age and sex
Through our partnership with ZRT Laboratory, Hormone Lab UK delivers internationally recognised, research-backed hormone testing to people across the UK and Europe — from the comfort of home.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between this test and a standard thyroid blood test?
Standard NHS thyroid tests typically measure TSH only. This panel measures six thyroid markers — including Free T3, Free T4, and both thyroid antibodies — plus iodine levels via urine. This gives a far more comprehensive view of thyroid health and its nutritional root causes, which a standard test would miss.
Why is iodine tested through urine and not blood?
Urinary iodine is the internationally recommended method for assessing iodine status. Because the kidneys excrete excess iodine, urine reflects your overall intake and body stores more accurately than a blood sample. We use ICP-MS technology — the most precise measurement method available.
Can iodine deficiency cause thyroid problems?
Yes. Iodine is a key building block of thyroid hormones T3 and T4. Without sufficient iodine, the thyroid cannot produce adequate hormones, which can lead to hypothyroidism, an enlarged thyroid (goitre), fatigue, and metabolic slowdown. This test identifies whether iodine deficiency may be contributing to your symptoms.
What are TPO and thyroglobulin antibodies, and why do they matter?
These are autoimmune markers. Elevated TPO antibodies are the primary indicator of Hashimoto's thyroiditis — the most common cause of an underactive thyroid. Thyroglobulin antibodies (TgAb) are also elevated in autoimmune thyroid disease. Detecting these early allows you to take action before significant thyroid damage occurs.
Is this test suitable for children?
Yes. The test is suitable for adults and children. Sample collection is straightforward and non-invasive — the dried blood spot requires only a small finger-prick, and the urine collection is simple. If you are testing a child, please follow the collection instructions carefully.
How do I collect the samples?
Your kit includes full step-by-step instructions. The dried blood spot is collected via a gentle finger-prick device (lancet). The dried urine sample is collected by applying a small amount of urine to the test card using a pipette. Both samples are then air-dried and posted to the laboratory in the envelope provided.
When will I receive my results?
Results are typically available within 3–5 working days of the laboratory receiving your samples. You will receive your full report by email, including clear graphics, numerical values, and specialist commentary.
Is the laboratory fee included in the price?
Yes. The purchase price includes the full laboratory analysis fee. There are no additional charges. You are only responsible for posting your sample to the laboratory.
How long is the kit valid for?
The kit must be used within 12 months of the purchase date.
Can I take this test if I am already on thyroid medication?
Yes. This test can be taken while on thyroid medication and is particularly useful for monitoring your levels and understanding whether your current treatment is effective. Please note your current medication when reviewing your results.
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