I really think we need to stop using the truT calculator here, at least for now. When having free T discussions about symptom resolution, we are judging everything based off of the older (though less accurate) test numbers and reference range.
He is showing up at ~19 on a standard calculator - with these numbers puts his somewhere in the middle of the range but with ~1.3% free. We aim for, generally speaking, 2%+ using the standard calculated method. Plugging it into truT and saying "actually you're at 47, you're way above range" doesn't mean his symptoms magically resolve.
We can't assume the truT range is the same as calculated free T, and even if it is, all that means is that we were wrong about what number and percentage of free T guys feel good at.
It may be closer to the direct free T measurement, but truT in my opinion, while very interesting, isn't exactly helpful at the moment. There needs to be a brand new reference range using the truT method before we start using it to dismiss low free T on the traditional test.
There needs to be a brand new reference range using the truT method before we start using it to dismiss low free T on the traditional test.
It's very interesting, but just doesn't seem to be contributing much to the free T discussion or diagnosis.
really think we need to stop using the truT calculator here, at least for now.
What is it you are not understanding here?
The direct immunoassays are inaccurate.....period!
The linear law-of-mass action models such as the commonly used Vermuelen calculated method is outdated and highly flawed due to the newer research/understanding of SHBG:T binding.
Again the only way to know where your FT level truly sits is to use the most accurate testing method such as the gold standard Equilibrium Dialysis or Ultrafiltration (next best) or use the newer calculated TruT method which has been shown to be on par with results obtained by the gold standard ED.
If you want to rely on using piss poor testing methods so be it!
Plugging it into truT and saying "actually you're at 47, you're way above range" doesn't mean his symptoms magically resolve.
His FT level is very high period!
Not low/normal.....mid-normal or high.....very high!
Who stated ones symptoms would magically resolve?
Seeing as he never had his FT tested using an accurate testing method.....he has no clue where his FT level sits.....and he was just shown using the TruT calculator.
If you want to ignore the fact that his FT is high when calculated using the TruT than get back to me when he has it retested using the gold standard Equilibrium Dialysis or Ultrafiltration.....BET it will come back high!
There needs to be a brand new reference range using the truT method before we start using it to dismiss low free T on the traditional test.
Traditional tests whether the most commonly used piss poor direct immunoassay or the outdated and flawed Vermuelen calculated are inaccurate.....period!
Again if you doubt the TruT calculated method.....than use the proper testing methods you know the most accurate ones I stated earlier.....ED or Ultrafiltration!
TRADITIONAL TESTING as you state is a waste of time.....unless you have low standards and accept the fact that they are inaccurate.
Classically when discussing free T we use the crude but relatively consistent calculated method for determining what 2%+ is for symptom resolution for most men, so we can't just plug in a different calculator for free T and expect all other variables not to shift with it.
It's flawed for f*** sakes.....until you grasp the significance of the newer research/understanding SHBG:T binding than you can continue pissing against the wall!
