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What is anti-TPO test? The anti-TPO test is used in the diagnosis of thyroid diseases. These are the antibodies that are the most common evidence of inflammation. The anti-TPO test is performed to determine exactly what autoimmune thyroid disease is attacking the body.
Anti TPO test – what is it?
The anti-TPO test is nothing more than a test that detects antibodies circulating in the blood. Our body makes up these antibodies. Most often it happens as a result of an error in the immune system. The anti-TPO test should be performed by people with symptoms of hypothyroidism. Belong to them:
- constipation
- somnolence,
- dry and cool skin,
- decreased appetite.
This test is also recommended for people struggling with hyperthyroidism. It is manifested by excessive sweating, fatigue and insomnia. They can also be performed in people whose previous hormone tests were unclear. Additionally, it is necessary to perform an anti-TPO test when the doctor intends to start treatment with amiodarone, lithium or interferon. All because these drugs can lead to the development of hypothyroidism.
How is the anti-TPO test done? Just like normal morphology. A blood sample is taken from a vein in the arm and sent to a laboratory for testing. You do not know how to prepare for the test? There are no special rules for preparation. The price of the test is usually around PLN 30.
On Medonet Market, buy a thyroid evaluation package. You will check the level of TSH, anti-TPO and FT4.
Anti-TPO is also worth investigating if you have problems that require dietary consultation. At Medonet Market, you will find the Pre-consultation package with a dietitian – home blood analysis, thanks to which the specialist will select the best diet for your needs and expectations.
Anti TPO test – standards
There are no generally accepted test standards. The test result should always be seen by a doctor. Only he is able to determine if it is correct. The correct result depends on many factors. It is influenced by age and gender. Additionally, each laboratory gives different values as a standard. This is why you should only use one facility to monitor your health and thyroid disease. This gives you confidence in the result.
If the anti-TPO level is low, it may be due to:
- type I diabetes,
- thyroid cancer
- rheumatoid arthritis.
On the other hand, an increased level most often indicates Hashimoto’s disease. It is a complicated disease that is very difficult to treat. It is worth doing basic tests from time to time to detect possible irregularities. If we want to perform them at the National Health Fund, an endocrinologist visit will be necessary, because the family doctor is only able to order TSH.
In each case of elevated anti-TPO, TSH and fT4 tests should be performed, as well as an ultrasound of the thyroid gland. Thanks to it, the doctor is able to detect any – even minor – abnormalities. It turns out to be useful in the diagnosis of Hashimoto’s, because the thyroid gland has a characteristic appearance in this disease. Usually its volume is reduced. Additionally, during the examination, the examiner pays attention to the “nodules”. These nodules are nothing more than inflammation caused by the disease. In some cases, the thyroid gland is completely destroyed. It is then no longer able to perform its function.
| Name of the study | Anty TPO |
| Introduction – what is this research / what the research is for | The type of antibodies produced by the body. They lead to inflammation of the thyroid gland. |
| Indications for the examination | Disturbing symptoms that may indicate a diseased thyroid gland, unclear test results for other hormones. |
| Standards | There is no specific standard |
| Interpreting the results (at least basic) | Individual interpretation |
| How is the test going | The test consists of analyzing a blood sample. |
| How to prepare for the test | There is no special preparation |
| Information to be reported prior to testing | Lack. |
| How to behave after the examination | Apply pressure to the injection site. |
| Possible complications after the examination | Hematoma at the site of collection. |
| Other important (if any) | x |