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TSH Receptor Antibodies

Also known as Thyrotropin Receptor Antibody Test, Anti-thyrotropin Test

₹3690~~₹4100~~ 10% Off

You need to provide

Blood

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

High Biotin dose (>5 mg/day) should be avoided at least 8 hrs prior to blood collection.

Understanding TSH Receptor Antibodies

What is TSH Receptor Antibodies?

The TSH Receptor Antibodies test is a blood test that detects the presence of specific proteins called Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Receptor Antibodies. These antibodies play an important role in the development and diagnosis of autoimmune thyroid diseases, such as Grave’s disease. They can stimulate or inhibit thyroid hormone production leading to various clinical manifestations.

TSH receptor antibodies (TRAbs) are the proteins produced by the immune system that target the Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) Receptor, an important regulator of thyroid gland function. TSH binds to its receptor, promoting thyroid hormone synthesis and secretion. However, in the presence of TRAbs, this interaction becomes dysregulated.

The TSH Receptor Antibodies test is a diagnostic test to detect TRAbs that are often present in certain thyroid conditions. The presence of TSH Receptor antibodies can indicate an autoimmune thyroid disorder such as Graves' disease, causing an overproduction of thyroid hormones, encompassing symptoms such as weight loss, palpitations, and heat intolerance. This test is often done alongside other thyroid function tests such as TSH, T3, T4, Free T3, Free T4, and other anti-thyroid antibodies tests to provide a more comprehensive view of thyroid function and to diagnose autoimmune thyroid disorders. If thyroid hormone tests indicate dysfunction, TSH Receptor Antibodies test may be ordered to explore autoimmune causes. During pregnancy, a TSH Receptor Antibodies test plays an important role in assessing thyroid health and identifying potential risks to the expecting mother and the growing baby.

Usually, no special preparation is required before undertaking a TSH Receptor Antibodies test. However, if done alongside thyroid function tests (TSH, T3, T4), inform your doctor about medications or supplements you are taking. While maintaining the continuity of your thyroid medications, wait for at least 8 -hours before a TSH Receptor Antibodies test if taking a high dose (more than 5 mg per day) of biotin (Vitamin B7) supplements as these may interfere with the test results.

Lab test results may vary depending on your age, gender, health history, and other things. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation; therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. The insights from this test help the doctor to diagnose autoimmune thyroid disorders, guide treatment decisions, and assess thyroid health.

What is TSH Receptor Antibodies used for?

The TSH Receptor Antibodies test is done:

To confirm the diagnosis of Grave’s disease, the most common cause of hyperthyroidism.
To help differentiate Grave’s disease from other causes of hyperthyroidism, such as toxic multinodular goiter or toxic adenoma.
To assess treatment response against Grave’s disease.
In pregnant women with Grave’s disease, predict the risk of neonatal thyrotoxicosis in the newborn.
To evaluate and manage the development of thyroid eye disease (Grave’s ophthalmology).
To assess the risk of transition to hyperthyroidism in cases of hypothyroidism, particularly Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
In research settings to better understand autoimmune thyroid diseases and develop new treatment strategies.

What does TSH Receptor Antibodies measure?

The TSH Receptor Antibodies test measures the presence and levels of specific antibodies known as TSH or Thyrotropin Receptor Antibody. These antibodies bind to the receptors on thyroid cells normally activated by thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and their presence usually indicates Grave’s disease, an autoimmune thyroid disorder. In Graves’ disease, an antibody called thyroid-stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI) binds to the TSH receptor and mimics the action of TSH. This causes constant stimulation of the thyroid gland, prompting it to release too much thyroid hormone. Elevated levels of these antibodies indicate an autoimmune response against the thyroid gland, which can help diagnose and monitor the relapse of Grave’s disease.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about TSH Receptor Antibodies

Frequently Asked Questions about TSH Receptor Antibodies

Q. Why do I need the TSH Receptor Antibodies test?

The TSH Receptor Antibodies test is done to detect autoimmune thyroid disorders like Grave’s disease. Elevated antibodies indicate an immune response against the thyroid, helping diagnose and manage these conditions.

Q. How often should the TSH Receptor Antibodies test be done?

The frequency of testing depends on the individual’s health condition and the doctor’s recommendations. It is typically done at the initial diagnosis and subsequently as advised by the doctor.

Q. How is the TSH Receptor Antibodies test performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take blood samples from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. Should I inform my doctor if I am taking any medications?

Yes, you should inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements as it might interfere with the test results.

Q. Do thyroid antibodies affect pregnancy?

Yes, the presence of thyroid antibodies, especially Anti-thyroid Peroxidase (anti-TPO), can impact pregnancy. Elevated levels of these antibodies may increase the risk of complications such as miscarriage, preterm birth, and developmental problems in the baby. It is important for pregnant women with thyroid antibodies to receive proper medical guidance and monitoring for a healthy pregnancy.

Q. What are autoimmune thyroid disorders?

The autoimmune thyroid disorders are those diseases that occur due to an attack of the body’s immune system on the thyroid gland. Examples of autoimmune thyroid diseases include Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Grave’s disease, etc.

Q. What is Grave’s disease?

Grave’s disease is an autoimmune disorder. In this disease, the immune system of the body attacks the thyroid gland causing excessive production of thyroid hormone leading to hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid).

Q. What are the symptoms associated with Grave’s disease?

Graves’ disease often causes symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as weight loss, rapid or irregular heartbeat, nervousness, irritability, trouble sleeping, fatigue, shaky hands, muscle weakness, sweating or trouble tolerating heat, frequent bowel movements an enlarged thyroid gland called a goiter.

Q. What other tests might I have along with the TSH Receptor Antibodies test?

Additional tests may vary at the doctor's discretion. However, commonly prescribed tests include thyroid peroxidase antibodies, thyroglobulin antibodies, thyroid receptor antibodies, and thyroid profile tests (T3, T4, TSH, Free T3, and Free T4).

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