What does it mean if my thyroid antibodies are elevated?

Elevated antibodies mean your immune system is producing proteins that attack your thyroid. This doesn't always cause immediate thyroid dysfunction, but indicates Hashimoto's or another autoimmune thyroid condition that should be monitored.

Can thyroid antibodies go down?

Yes, antibody levels can fluctuate and sometimes decrease with lifestyle changes, reduced inflammation, or treatment. However, they rarely disappear completely once present.

Should I test antibodies if my TSH is normal?

Yes! Antibodies can be elevated for years before TSH becomes abnormal. Early detection allows for proactive monitoring and lifestyle interventions that may slow progression.

What's the difference between TPO and TG antibodies?

TPO antibodies attack the enzyme that makes thyroid hormones and are found in 90% of Hashimoto's cases. TG antibodies attack the protein that stores thyroid hormones. Testing both gives the most complete picture.

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🦋 ThyroidPopular

Thyroid Antibodies Test (TPO & Thyroglobulin)

Thyroid Antibodies

This panel tests for both major thyroid antibodies that indicate autoimmune thyroid disease, the most common cause of thyroid problems.

Autoimmune thyroid disease is the leading cause of hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. Your immune system can mistakenly attack your thyroid gland, producing antibodies against thyroid proteins. This test measures two key antibodies:

• TPO (Thyroid Peroxidase) Antibodies - Found in 90% of Hashimoto's cases • Thyroglobulin Antibodies - Often elevated alongside TPO antibodies

Detecting these antibodies early can help predict thyroid dysfunction before it occurs and guide treatment decisions.

Price

$27

All-in

$45

incl. $18 lab & physician fee

Results

2-3 business days

Fasting

Not Required

What's Measured

TPO Antibodies

Thyroglobulin Antibodies

What This Test Measures

This panel measures two antibodies: TPO antibodies attack the enzyme thyroid peroxidase (needed to make thyroid hormones), while thyroglobulin antibodies target the protein used to produce thyroid hormones. Elevated levels of either suggest your immune system is attacking your thyroid.

Who Should Consider This Test

Anyone with a family history of autoimmune thyroid disease, unexplained thyroid symptoms, or abnormal TSH levels. Essential for women planning pregnancy, those with other autoimmune conditions, and anyone wanting to understand the cause of their thyroid problems.

Health Insights

Conditions Screened

Hashimoto's thyroiditisGraves' diseasePostpartum thyroiditisAutoimmune thyroid diseaseThyroid inflammation

Related Symptoms

FatigueWeight changesHair lossGoiter (neck swelling)Mood changesTemperature sensitivityBrain fogJoint painDry skin

When to Get Tested

Test anytime without fasting. Recommended when TSH is abnormal, if you have symptoms of thyroid disease, or if you have other autoimmune conditions. Antibodies can be detected years before thyroid dysfunction develops.

No fasting needed. How to prepare for your blood test →

Understanding Your Results

Elevated antibodies indicate autoimmune thyroid activity. TPO antibodies >35 IU/mL and/or TG antibodies >20 IU/mL suggest autoimmune thyroid disease. Higher levels often correlate with greater thyroid inflammation. Even if levels are elevated, thyroid function may still be normal - but monitoring becomes important.

What to Expect

After placing your order, we send it straight to Quest Diagnostics — there is no consent form to sign and no partner email to wait for. Your requisition is usually ready to download from your dashboard within about an hour, and you can book your blood draw at any Quest Diagnostics location.

The blood draw typically takes just a few minutes. Results are usually available within 2-3 business days and will appear in your secure JustLabs dashboard.

Our results include reference ranges and easy-to-understand indicators showing whether your values are within normal limits.

How much does the Thyroid Antibodies test cost?

The Thyroid Antibodies test costs $27 at JustLabs — $45 all-in, since the $18 lab & physician order fee is charged once per order, however many tests you add. The price is fixed before your blood draw; no insurance or doctor visit needed.