High TPO

[richard123]

I have normal thyroid function all in mid range but tpo is 950 drs say 50 50 chance of developing thyroid problem in future but no prob ? I am always tired, puffy and generally don't feel right

[shaws Administrator]

This is an extract from a Pulse Online article by Dr Toft a prominent endocrinologist. Excerpt:- The appropriate dose of levothyroxine is that which restores euthyroidism and serum TSH to the lower part of the reference range – 0.2-0.5mU/l. :

2 I often see patients who have an elevated TSH but normal T4. How should I be managing them?

The combination of a normal serum T4 and raised serum TSH is known as subclinical hypothyroidism. If measured, serum T3 will also be normal. Repeat the thyroid function tests in two or three months in case the abnormality represents a resolving thyroiditis.

But if it persists then antibodies to thyroid peroxidase should be measured. If these are positive – indicative of underlying autoimmune thyroid disease – the patient should be considered to have the mildest form of hypothyroidism.

In the absence of symptoms some would simply recommend annual thyroid function tests until serum TSH is over 10mU/l or symptoms such as tiredness and weight gain develop. But a more pragmatic approach is to recognise that the thyroid failure is likely to become worse and try to nip things in the bud rather than risk loss to follow-up.

Treatment should be started with levothyroxine in a dose sufficient to restore serum TSH to the lower part of its reference range. Levothyroxine in a dose of 75-100µg daily will usually be enough.

[Marz]

I too have high anti-bodies and was diagnosed with Hashimotos in 2005. All TFT's were in range but treatment started at 25mcg. The Doctors comment was that the thyroid needs support whilst under attack. I live in Crete so things are a little easier. Am now T3 only.

You don't mention your age or your symptoms and it would also be helpful if you posted your results with ranges.

Hashimotos is auto-immune so it may be time to address any gut issues you may have - or perhaps they are hiding. Click onto Hashimotos on the right of this page - Browse by Category - and read some of the posts - it may help....