Anti-Thyroglobulin (Atg)

The Thyroid Antibody Test is a laboratory test that measures the levels of antibodies in the blood that can attack and damage the thyroid gland. The thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped organ in the neck that produces hormones that regulate metabolism, growth, and development. When the immune system mistakenly identifies and attacks thyroid tissue as foreign, it can lead to chronic inflammation and tissue damage, resulting in various thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. The thyroid antibody test is used to diagnose autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and Graves' Disease, monitor the effectiveness of treatment, and assess the risk of developing future thyroid problems. This test is performed on a sample of blood drawn from an arm vein and may be ordered by a healthcare provider if there are symptoms or signs of thyroid dysfunction.

Price of test:£39

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £NaN

Awaiting result:

One day

Collect material:

Blood

Prepare:

Learn more

Purpose of the test

The Thyroid Antibody Test is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and management of various thyroid disorders. The test measures the levels of specific antibodies in the blood that can attack and damage the thyroid gland, leading to chronic inflammation and tissue damage.

The test is ordered by healthcare providers for several reasons, including

- Diagnosing autoimmune thyroid disease: The thyroid antibody test is used to diagnose autoimmune thyroid diseases such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. These conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, causing inflammation and damage. Symptoms of these conditions include fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, dry skin, constipation or diarrhea, muscle weakness, and mood changes.

- Monitoring the effectiveness of treatment: The thyroid antibody test is also used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment in patients with autoimmune thyroid disease. Treatment may include medications that suppress the immune system or replace missing hormones.

- Assessing the risk of future thyroid problems: The thyroid antibody test can help assess a patient's risk of developing future thyroid problems. High levels of antibodies may indicate an increased risk of developing autoimmune thyroid disease or other related conditions.

The importance of early detection of autoimmune thyroid disease is critical for effective treatment and prevention of complications. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease, infertility, osteoporosis, and mental health problems.

The thyroid antibody test is a simple blood test that can be done in a laboratory or doctor's office. A needle is used to draw blood from an arm vein. No special preparations are needed before the test.

Thyroid Antibody Test plays an important role in the diagnosis and management of various thyroid disorders. Early detection by this test can help prevent serious complications associated with untreated autoimmune thyroid disease. Healthcare providers may order this test when there are symptoms or signs of thyroid dysfunction or to monitor the effectiveness of treatment.

Who Should Get Tested

The thyroid antibody test may be indicated for individuals who have symptoms or signs of thyroid dysfunction or who have risk factors for autoimmune thyroid disease.

This may include

- Individuals with a family history of autoimmune thyroid disease
- Women over the age of 60
- People with other autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus
- Pregnant women with a history of thyroid problems or a family history of autoimmune thyroid disease
- Individuals with a goiter (enlarged thyroid)
- Individuals with abnormal thyroid hormone levels in previous blood tests

Symptoms and signs of thyroid dysfunction may include fatigue, weight gain or loss, hair loss, dry skin, constipation or diarrhea, muscle weakness, and mood changes. However, some people with autoimmune thyroid disease may have no symptoms at all.

Because of this, it is important to note that thyroid antibody testing is not routinely recommended for everyone. Healthcare providers will consider an individual's medical history and symptoms before ordering this test. If you are experiencing symptoms or have concerns about your thyroid health, talk to your healthcare provider about whether the thyroid antibody test is right for you.

Blood Test Preparation Guidelines

Time of day

It is recommended to schedule your appointment for blood tests in the morning hours between 7:00-10:00.

Fasting

It is recommended to fast for approximately 12 hours before blood sampling. The last meal of the previous day should ideally be consumed around 6:00 p.m. On the day before the test, avoid heavy and fatty meals as well as alcohol.

Stay hydrated

Drinking water prior to testing can help with sample collection.

Other factors

Tests should not be performed after a sleepless night or intense physical activity. It is recommended to avoid exercise and stress immediately before blood collection and to not smoke. A short rest is recommended.

Medications and supplements:

Blood samples should be collected before the morning dose. Some drugs can interfere with test results. Consult with your doctor whether you can delay your dose because of lab tests.

Biotin supplements:

High doses of biotin supplements can affect test results, causing false elevation or reduction. It's recommended to avoid taking biotin for at least 72 hours before blood collection. If you are taking biotin, inform the personnel collecting the blood so that they can provide specific instructions.

Interpreting Test Results

The Thyroid Antibody Test measures the levels of specific antibodies in the blood that can attack and damage the thyroid gland. The results of this test can help diagnose autoimmune thyroid disease, monitor the effectiveness of treatment, and assess the risk of future thyroid problems.

Here are some general guidelines for interpreting thyroid antibody test results:

- Normal range: In general, a normal range for thyroid antibodies is less than 4 IU/mL. However, this may vary depending on the laboratory performing the test.

- High levels: High levels of thyroid antibodies may indicate an autoimmune thyroid disease such as Hashimoto's Thyroiditis or Graves' Disease. However, high levels can also be present in people with no symptoms or signs of thyroid dysfunction.

- Low levels: Low levels of thyroid antibodies are generally not a cause for concern and do not indicate significant health problems.

When interpreting thyroid antibody test results, it is important to note that healthcare providers will consider an individual's medical history and symptoms. In addition, other tests such as TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and T4 (thyroxine) may be ordered to provide a more complete picture of thyroid function.

If you have questions or concerns about your thyroid antibody test results, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help you understand what your results mean and what steps to take next, if needed.

Price of test:£39

The lowest price from the last 30 days: £NaN

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