Antithyroid Antibody Tests
Test Overview
Thyroid antibody tests measure the levels of antibodies, Opens dialog that can destroy thyroid tissue or make the cells produce thyroid hormones. They are blood tests.
Antibodies that destroy thyroid tissue can lead to hypothyroidism, Opens dialog (underactive thyroid). Antibodies that make the cells produce thyroid hormone can lead to hyperthyroidism, Opens dialog (overactive thyroid).
The body's immune system, Opens dialog makes antibodies to fight infections. But sometime those antibodies attack the body's tissues instead. This is called an autoimmune reaction.
People who have one autoimmune disease may get another one. Tell your doctor if you have any new or worse symptoms.
These tests are not thyroid hormone tests. High or low levels of thyroid hormones also can be signs of thyroid problems. These antibody tests may be done after thyroid hormone tests to find the cause of high or low levels of thyroid hormones.
High levels of these antibodies usually suggest that a person has an autoimmune thyroid problem. But some people who have thyroid problems don't test positive for these antibodies. And some people who have these antibodies don't get thyroid disease.
Thyroid antibody tests are usually done if you have a goiter, Opens dialog or symptoms of thyroid disease.
The following tests may be done:
- Anti-thyroid peroxidase antibody: This can show Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It also can help your doctor tell if mild hypothyroidism is likely to get worse.
- Thyroid stimulating antibody: This can check for Graves' disease. It also can help a doctor find out if the fetus of a mother with Graves' disease is likely to get a short-term form of the condition.
- Anti-thyroglobulin antibody: This also is used to look for Hashimoto's thyroiditis and to see if mild hypothyroidism might get worse. It also can be used to see if a thyroglobulin test done during treatment for thyroid cancer is accurate.
When a blood sample is taken, you may feel nothing at all from the needle. Or you might feel a quick sting or pinch.
There is very little chance of having a problem from this test. When a blood sample is taken, a small bruise may form at the site.
Each lab has a different range for what's normal. Your lab report should show the range that your lab uses for each test. The normal range is just a guide. Your doctor will also look at your results based on your age, health, and other factors. A value that isn't in the normal range may still be normal for you.
Negative results for the tests mean that you don't have thyroid antibodies. If you have symptoms of thyroid problems, they are likely caused by something else.
High levels of these antibodies can show that there is a problem with your thyroid. You may have other tests to find out what is wrong.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Current as of: April 30, 2024
Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.