Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPO) Blood Test

What is the purpose of this test?

Order this Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies Blood Test, which detects and measures TPO antibodies in the blood to screen for thyroid problems and autoimmune diseases, including Hashimoto thyroiditis and Graves' disease. The thyroid peroxidase enzyme is mainly located in the thyroid gland and is crucial in producing thyroid hormones. A Thyroid Peroxidase Test is commonly used to diagnose thyroid diseases when a person experiences symptoms, mainly if other thyroid tests have yielded inconsistent results. Pregnant women with autoimmune disorders may undergo a TPO Abs test to assess their baby's risk of developing thyroid dysfunction.

TPO antibodies are found in most patients with chronic thyroiditis and some with other thyroid diseases. Lymphocytes in the thyroid can produce these antibodies and may not show up in a blood test. Even some people without any signs of disease can have TPO antibodies. Women are more likely to have antibodies to thyroid microsomes, and the likelihood increases with age. TPO antibodies are produced when the body's immune system attacks the thyroid gland, which can happen in autoimmune disorders like Graves Disease or Hashimotos Thyroiditis.

When should I order a Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies Blood Test?

Individuals may order this test if they have symptoms of a thyroid problem that their healthcare provider believes may be caused by Hashimoto or Grave's disease.

Signs indicative of Hashimoto disease may include:

• Weight gain
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Low tolerance for cold temperatures
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Constipation
• Depression
• Joint pain

In addition, common symptoms of Grave's disease may include:

• Weight loss
• Bulging of the eyes
• Tremors in the hand
• Low tolerance for heat
• Trouble sleeping
• Anxiety
• Increased heart rate
• Swollen thyroid, known as goiter