Hashimotos - false test readings

[BrecklandRanger]

I've just read that testing for Hashimoto's may be problematic, as the thyroid antibodies might not show up in a test due to the immune system being depressed.

If this might be the case, is there another way to check for the thyroid antibodies?

Thanks.

[PR4NOW]

Doing an ultrasound is usually considered the gold standard but that depends on the person reading the US and their skill set can vary considerably. PR

[BrecklandRanger in reply to PR4NOW]

Can anyone explain how an ultrasound can check for antibodies? I'd thought some kind of biopsy would be the gold standard.

[PR4NOW in reply to BrecklandRanger]

It doesn't check for antibodies, it checks the structural condition of the thyroid gland. If you have Hashimoto's or Graves the physical condition of the thyroid gland will change and the US can pick that up. If you have nodules or cysts then they might consider a FNA (Fine Needle Aspiration) where they use a needle to get a physical sample of the gland for analysis. PR

[Spareribs in reply to PR4NOW]

PR - don't think they tell us what's actually in the ultrasound on this side of the pond, well they didn't tell me anyway (hot or cold, solid or not or significance of either - but he duly measured and it was the size of a plum (Victoria I asked?) this was apparently lost on him, as was the scan...

[BrecklandRanger in reply to Spareribs]

If you don't mind me asking, how did you get the diagnosis in the end?

[Spareribs in reply to BrecklandRanger]

who me?

It's been a long journey! I just asked for an antibody test (TPO) when my GP suggested CFS after my partialT op - it was 'slightly raised' (=ignored).

4½ years of symptoms & then TSH 19 something - NOW I'm suddenly hypothyroid?... "come on down & get your prescription (free for life) ..."

I didn't used to be so grumpy.. I apologise... I'll be fine next week (I forget easily...) J

PS nice to see a red squirrel..

[shaws in reply to Spareribs]

Spare,

You are witty and always 'tongue in cheek' but you make me laugh. I am glad you are now taking The Pill. Who knows what will happen now?

[greygoose]

The thing is, Brecklandranger, they shouldn't base their diagnosis on one single test. The test should be repeated a few times at irregular intervals. One negative test is not proof of no Hashi's... if you see what I mean.

[jellynpain]

Hi,

I have confirmed atrophy thyroid (just have half, right side only). Have many thyroid related symptoms but ok'ish bloods only thing Dr's consider (as many of us have found).

My question is, does anyone know how a radiologist/Dr can tell if the atrophied thyroid is congenital (they are saying is from birth) or from Hashi or other medical problem? Can't get a defined answer from a Dr!!

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