Antibodies against thyroid peroxidase
The ATPO test is performed when an autoimmune thyroid disease is suspected, most commonly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. It helps identify the cause of thyroid dysfunction by detecting abnormalities in thyroid hormones (TTH or LT4). It is also very useful for women before or during pregnancy for assessing thyroid function.
16,00 €
What is the need for a study?
The ATPO test is performed when an autoimmune thyroid disease is suspected, most commonly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. It helps identify the cause of thyroid dysfunction by detecting abnormalities in thyroid hormones (TTH or LT4). It is also very useful for women before or during pregnancy for assessing thyroid function.
When should I be tested?
The test is recommended in case of thyroid hormone changes, elevated or decreased levels of TTH (thyrotropin) and other thyroid hormones, thyroid enlargement, nodules or suspected autoimmune thyroiditis. The test is also performed when the patient experiences fatigue, cold sensitivity, weight changes, hair loss, anxiety, palpitations or shaking hands.
ATPO is also tested in pregnant women, especially if thyroid hormone abnormalities are detected, which is important for fetal health monitoring and prognosis.
What sample is needed for the test?
Blood is drawn from a vein in the arm.
How to prepare for the survey?
No special preparation is required. The test can be done at any time of the day, but is usually taken in the morning, after fasting, especially if there are other blood tests being done at the same time.
You must inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, especially levothyroxine, steroids or immunosuppressants.
What do my results mean?
Patients diagnosed with elevated ATPO should consult an endocrinologist regularly and have periodic thyroid hormone tests.
If your ATPO values are very high, especially if there are also changes in your thyroid hormone levels (TTH or FT4), you need to consult an endocrinologist and have an accurate diagnosis of thyroid disease: you may have Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (if your TTH is elevated), or Graves’ disease (if your TTH is low and your FT4 is high).
Related studies
TTH, free thyroxine (LT4), free triiodothyronine (LT3), anti-TG, anti-TSHR
Related conditions/diseases
Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (hypothyroidism), Graves’ disease (hyperthyroidism)