Description
Antithyroglobulin antibody is a test to measure antibodies antibodies to a protein called thyroglobulin, which is found in thyroid cells.
This test helps detect possible thyroid problems. Antithyroglobulin antibodies can lead to the destruction of the thyroid gland. Such antibodies are more likely to appear after thyroid gland swelling (inflammation) or injury.
Thyroglobulin antibody is also measured whenever the thyroglobulin level is measured.
Normal Results
A negative test is normal. A negative test means no antibodies to thyroglobulin are found in your blood.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
Abnormal Results
A positive test means antithyroglobulin antibodies are found in your blood. This may be due to:
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Graves disease
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Hashimoto's Thyroiditis
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Hypothyroidism
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Myxedema
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Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
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Thyroid cancer
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Thyrotoxicosis
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Type 1 diabetes
Pregnant women and relatives of those with autoimmune thyroiditis may also test positive for these antibodies.
Risks
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
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Excessive bleeding
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Fainting or feeling light-headed
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Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
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Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
Alternative Names
Synonyms:
Antithyroglobulin Antibody
Thyroglobulin Antibody
Antibodies to thyroglobulin can be detected in 40% to 70% of patients with chronic thyroiditis. Antibodies may also be present in 70% of hypothyroid patients, 40% of patients with Graves' disease, and smaller numbers of patients with other autoimmune conditions, particularly pernicious anemia. Normal individuals, especially elderly females, may have antibody.