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Hypothyroidism: Antithyroid Antibodies Test
Topic Overview
The immune system may produce antithyroid antibodies that destroy thyroid tissue. An antithyroid antibody test determines whether you have these antibodies.
If you test positive for antithyroid antibodies, you may have Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the most common cause of hypothyroidism. But many people with hypothyroidism never test positive for antithyroid antibodies. Also, people who test positive for antithyroid antibodies may never develop hypothyroidism.
Understanding Graves' Disease -- Diagnosis and Treatment
Although Graves' disease can be diagnosed from the results of one or two tests, your doctor may use several methods to double-check the findings and rule out other disorders. An analysis of your blood will show if the levels of two hormones -- tetraiodothyrinine (free T-4) and triiodothyronine (free T-3), which are produced or regulated by the thyroid -- are higher than normal. If they are, and if levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) in your blood are abnormally low, you are hyperthyroid,...
Read the Understanding Graves' Disease -- Diagnosis and Treatment article > >
If you have mild (subclinical) hypothyroidism, the presence of antithyroid antibodies can help predict how likely it is that you will develop hypothyroidism that eventually causes symptoms.
WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise
Last Updated:
July 16, 2010
This information is not intended to replace the advice of a doctor.
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Hypothyroidism: Antithyroid Antibodies Test
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