Fatigue Panel (CBC, CMP, TSH, Iron, B12, Vitamin D)
Comprehensive blood panel to identify common causes of chronic tiredness including anemia, thyroid dysfunction, iron deficiency, and vitamin deficiencies.
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What this test measures
The Fatigue Panel is a comprehensive blood test that evaluates the most common medical causes of persistent tiredness and low energy. This panel includes a Complete Blood Count (CBC), Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP), thyroid function test (TSH), iron studies, vitamin B12, and vitamin D levels: six key areas that can significantly impact energy levels when imbalanced.
Many individuals experience fatigue even when routine blood tests appear normal, as standard screening often misses important markers like iron deficiency, thyroid dysfunction, or vitamin deficiencies. Vitamin and mineral deficiencies can directly impair energy metabolism at the cellular level, leading to persistent fatigue even when other body systems appear to function normally. This comprehensive approach helps identify treatable causes that may be overlooked by more basic testing, providing individuals with actionable information about their health status. No doctor visit required to obtain this panel, making it accessible for those seeking answers about their energy levels.
What's included
Who should consider this test
You might consider this test if you are experiencing any of the following:
- Individuals experiencing persistent fatigue, tiredness, or low energy levels lasting more than a few weeks
- Those with difficulty concentrating, brain fog, or mental fatigue that interferes with daily activities
- People who feel tired despite getting adequate sleep or rest
- Individuals with symptoms that may suggest thyroid dysfunction, such as unexplained weight changes, hair loss, or temperature sensitivity
- Those at risk for iron deficiency, including individuals with heavy menstrual periods, vegetarians, or those with digestive issues
- People following restricted diets or those concerned about vitamin deficiencies
- Athletes or active individuals experiencing decreased performance or unusual fatigue during exercise
What to expect
Preparation
Fasting for 8-12 hours is recommended before testing to ensure accurate glucose and lipid measurements in the comprehensive metabolic panel. Certain supplements and medications can interfere with test results, so individuals should consult with their healthcare provider about temporarily stopping supplements if concerned about potential interference. Water is generally permitted during the fasting period.
Sample Type
A standard blood draw from a vein in the arm, typically taking just a few minutes to collect the necessary sample.
Collection
Visit any participating laboratory location for a quick blood draw. The sample will be processed to measure all six components of the fatigue panel using established laboratory methods.
Turnaround
Results are typically available within 1-3 business days and will be accessible through a secure online portal or provided according to the laboratory's standard reporting procedures.
Understanding your results
The Fatigue Panel results provide a comprehensive view of several body systems that commonly contribute to tiredness and low energy. Each component offers specific insights: the CBC can reveal anemia or blood cell abnormalities, the CMP assesses organ function and metabolism, TSH evaluates thyroid activity, iron studies show iron storage status, and vitamin levels indicate nutritional adequacy. Healthcare providers typically interpret these results together rather than individually, as fatigue often has multiple contributing factors.
| Population | Reference Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Males - TSH | 0.4-4.5 mIU/L | Normal thyroid function range for most healthy adult males |
| Adult Females - TSH | 0.4-4.5 mIU/L | Normal thyroid function range for most healthy adult females |
| Adults - Vitamin B12 | 200-950 pg/mL | Some experts recommend levels above 500 pg/mL for optimal function |
| Adults - Vitamin D | 20-100 ng/mL, with 30-100 ng/mL considered optimal | Levels below 20 ng/mL are considered deficient |
| Adult Males - Ferritin | 30-566 ng/mL | Iron storage protein levels in healthy adult males |
| Adult Females - Ferritin | 15-205 ng/mL | Iron storage protein levels in healthy adult females |
Reference ranges shown are general guidelines. Your lab report will include the specific reference range used by the laboratory that processed your sample, which is the authoritative range for interpreting your results.
What does a “Low” result mean?
Low TSH levels may indicate an overactive thyroid with symptoms like weight loss and rapid heart rate, while high TSH often suggests an underactive thyroid characterized by fatigue and cold intolerance. Low vitamin B12 levels (typically below 200-250 pg/mL) may indicate deficiency, which can cause fatigue, anemia, and neurological symptoms. Vitamin D levels below 20 ng/mL are considered deficient and may contribute to fatigue, mood changes, and weakened immunity. Low ferritin combined with low blood counts typically indicates iron-deficiency anemia, which is a common and treatable cause of chronic fatigue.
What does a “High” result mean?
Elevated TSH levels typically indicate an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), where the pituitary gland produces extra TSH to compensate for insufficient thyroid hormone production. High ferritin levels may indicate iron overload, inflammation, or conditions like hemochromatosis, and can also occur due to infections or autoimmune diseases. Elevated vitamin D levels are uncommon but may result from excessive supplementation. High values in the CBC or CMP components may suggest various underlying conditions that warrant further evaluation by a healthcare provider.
Privacy & confidentiality
All test orders are authorized and results reviewed by an independent, board-certified physician who is not the patient's personal doctor. LevelPanel understands that health testing can be a deeply personal matter, and individuals value discretion when investigating symptoms like chronic fatigue. Your Fatigue Panel results are handled with complete confidentiality and <u>not reported to your doctor</u> unless you choose to share them. The test results are <u>not added to your medical records</u> automatically, giving you full control over your health information. Additionally, since this is a direct-pay service, the test <u>will not appear on insurance statements</u> or explanations of benefits, ensuring your privacy is maintained. Many people prefer the privacy of direct lab testing when exploring potential causes of fatigue, especially when they want to rule out common issues before seeing a healthcare provider. Your results are delivered securely through an encrypted online portal, accessible only to you. LevelPanel does not share your information with employers, insurance companies, or anyone else without your explicit consent. This confidential approach allows individuals to take charge of their health investigation while maintaining complete discretion about their testing and results.
Frequently asked questions
Related tests
Comprehensive Thyroid Panel
$59Provides more detailed thyroid evaluation including Free T4 and Free T3 if TSH is abnormal
View TestComplete Iron Studies Panel
$59Offers comprehensive iron assessment including TIBC and transferrin saturation if iron deficiency is suspected
View TestB-Complex Vitamin Panel
$49Evaluates other B vitamins that can contribute to fatigue if B12 deficiency is identified
View TestRelated conditions
CPT Code: 85025, 80053, 84443, 82728, 82607, 82306
This test may not be available in: NY, NJ, RI
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider regarding any health concerns. LevelPanel does not diagnose, treat, or prescribe.
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Not sure if this is the right test? Contact our care team for guidance.