Thyroid Panel - Equine
The Equine Thyroid Panel is a diagnostic test that evaluates thyroid function by measuring the levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) in equine serum. Thyroid hormones play a critical role in regulating metabolism, energy balance, and overall health in horses. This panel is primarily used to assess thyroid function and help rule out hypothyroidism, a condition characterized by insufficient thyroid hormone production. While hypothyroidism is uncommon in adult horses, it can occur in foals or secondary to other systemic conditions.By analyzing T3 and T4 levels, veterinarians can identify potential thyroid dysfunction or confirm that clinical signs such as lethargy, poor performance, weight gain, or abnormal coat are not related to thyroid hormone imbalance. This panel is particularly useful in horses exhibiting nonspecific clinical symptoms and in cases where other metabolic conditions, such as equine metabolic syndrome, need to be differentiated.
2 ml Serum
Collect an adequate amount of blood in a plain red-top tube or serum separator tube (yellow-top tube). Allow it to clot at room temperature for 30 to 60 minutes before separation.
Centrifuge to separate the serum. Transfer the clear serum into a new, leak-proof plain red-top tube and label it as "serum."
Excessively hemolyzed samples are not suitable for this test.
Unspun samples will not be accepted.
Refrigerate sample at 4oC until shipment.
Label each sample with the animal’s name and a unique identifier, using a permanent marker or a secure adhesive label
Ensure the submittal form is completed with the animal’s information and relevant medical history.
Frank, N., et al. "Thyroid Dysfunction in Horses: Diagnostic and Clinical Perspectives." Journal of Equine Veterinary Science, 2021.
Hinchcliff, K.W., et al. "Advances in Thyroid Function Testing for Equine Patients: Focus on T3 and T4." Veterinary Clinics of North America: Equine Practice, 2022.
McKenzie, E.C., et al. "Thyroid Hormone Assessment in Equines: Clinical Relevance and Diagnostic Methods." Journal of Veterinary Diagnostic Investigation, 2023.