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Anti Thyroglobulin Antibody
Overview
What is Anti-Tg?
Antithyroglobulin antibody (Anti- Tg) test is used to measure antibodies against thyroglobulin, a protein secreted by the thyroid gland. Thyroglobulin is essential for the production of the thyroid hormones, thyroxine and triiodothyronine. Anti- Tg may also be found in case of certain autoimmune diseases, when your immune system creates antibodies against your body’s own healthy cells.
This test is advised if one experiences symptoms of hyperthyroidism (such as sweating and rapid heart rate) or hypothyroidism. It also helps to measure the effectiveness of thyroid treatment and monitor the recurrence of thyroid cancer.
If the levels of antithyroglobulin antibodies in the blood are significantly high, this may be a sign of a serious autoimmune disorder, such as Graves’ disease or Hashimoto thyroiditis.
Why is Anti-Tg done?
The Anti-thyroglobulin antibody test is done:
In case of symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as sweating, rapid heart rate, tremors, anxiety, weight loss, and protruding eyes
In case of symptoms of hypothyroidism such as weight gain, fatigue, constipation, and intolerance to cold
Before and after the completion of thyroid cancer treatment to measure the effectiveness of the treatment
To monitor the recurrence of thyroid cancer
In case of increased risk of thyroid dysfunction or having another autoimmune disorder
What does Anti-Tg Measure?
The anti-thyroglobulin antibody test measures the levels of antibodies produced against thyroglobulin in the body. Thyroglobulin is a protein which is made by the thyroid gland. The thyroid gland is small-sized and butterfly-shaped and is located near the base of the throat above the collar bone. The thyroid gland makes T3 and T4 hormones. The role of hormones is to regulate the metabolism of the body. In addition to that, these hormones affect the body’s energy levels, weight, and mood.
In case of conditions where autoantibodies are produced against thyroid gland such as s Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and autoimmune thyroid disease, the anti-thyroglobulin antibody test is carried out.
Interpreting Anti-Tg results
Interpretations
The levels of anti-thyroglobulin antibody test should range <60.00 IU/mL.
Reference range may vary from lab to lab*