What is an rT3 test?
The Reverse T3 (RT3) test measures the inactive form of the hormone T3 or Triiodothyronine. Triiodothyronine is one of two major hormones produced by the thyroid (the other is T4, or thyroxine). Under normal conditions, the body converts T4 to T3 and RT3 in specific ratios.
When do you check reverse T3?
Reverse T3 (rT3) Reverse T3 is a less common form of T3. This is often ordered in conjunction with a T4 test because it’s a hormone produced from your T4’s metabolism. If you’re experiencing chronic stress, depression, brain fog, anxiety, weight fluctuations or hair loss, your doctor may recommend this test for you.
What are the symptoms of high reverse T3?
The conversion of T4 to reverse T3 is increased in times of stress and illness. Reverse T3 causes fatigue, difficulty losing weight, brain fog, muscle aches and all the other symptoms of hypothyroidism.
What is the function of rT3?
Reverse T3 (rT3) is a metabolically inactive form of thyroid hormone, which is generated from T4 via the type 3 5′-deiodinase enzyme. In addition to producing rT3, the type 3 5′-deiodinase enzyme is also responsible for decomposing rT3 into inactive diiodothyronine.
What does it mean when reverse T3 is low?
What does it mean if your Reverse T3, Serum result is too low? Decreased rT3 levels in the serum are uncommon. When it occurs, it usually happens in people with hypothyroidism or those being treated with growth hormones or steroids.
Does high reverse T3 cause weight gain?
With less-than-optimal T4, hypothyroidism is usually characterized by low T3 and low rT3. Yet, sometimes, unexpectedly high rT3 can develop if you are hypothyroid. This can cause weight gain, and it may also be caused by weight gain.
What is the difference between T3 and reverse T3?
According to Dr. Rose, “Reverse T3 (rT3) is the metabolically inactive form of T3. Reverse T3 contains the same number of iodine molecules [as T3] but attached to different areas.” Reverse T3 is made from T4, Dr.
What is a normal T3 reverse T3 ratio?
Many Functional Medicine practitioners are in agreement that a Free T3 to Reverse T3 ratio of > 20 is ideal. This is basically saying that you want at least 20 times as much Free T3 to Reverse T3 to be in the best health.