Antithyroid Peroxidase Antibody Test- Why am I having this test?
Antithyroid Peroxidase Antibody Test is used to help in diagnosing different thyroid diseases. Your health care provider may perform this test along with other thyroid antibody tests to aid in specific diagnoses.
What is being tested?
This test measures the presence and level of antibodies that are produced against thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme normally found in the thyroid gland.
What kind of sample is taken?
A blood sample is required for this test. It is usually collected by inserting a needle into a blood vessel.
How are the results reported?
Your test results will be reported as a value. Your health care provider will compare your results to normal ranges that were established after testing a large group of people (reference ranges). Reference ranges may vary among labs and hospitals. For this test, a common reference range is:
- All ages: 0–9 international units/mL.
What do the results mean?
Increased levels of antithyroid peroxidase antibody may indicate:
- Hashimoto thyroiditis.
- Graves disease.
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Hypothyroidism.
- Thyroid cancer.
- Certain types of anemia.
Talk with your health care provider about what your results mean.
Questions to ask your health care provider
Ask your health care provider, or the department that is doing the test:
- When will my results be ready?
- How will I get my results?
- What are my treatment options?
- What other tests do I need?
- What are my next steps?
Summary
- The antithyroid peroxidase test is used to help in diagnosing different thyroid diseases.
- This test checks for antibodies that are produced against thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme normally found in the thyroid gland.
- Elevated levels of antithyroid peroxidase antibodies can be seen in various thyroid conditions, including Hashimoto thyroiditis and thyroid cancer.
