Testing for Graves

[PurpleNails]

I currently have a blood test order form for my next blood test and I was told it would test for thyroid anti bodies associated with graves to rule it out. However I’m not sure it’s on the form. The only reference I can’t decipher is GTRA. Can anyone confim what this might refer to? (Im in the UK)

I’m desperate to minimise any blood testing. The last time, which had to be fasting took 5 appointment and 12 attempts to find a vein.

[pennyannie]

HelloPurpleNails

The Graves Disease antibody blood test will be one or both of the following :-

A TSI blood test - thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin, and these antibodies, as the name suggests stimulate thyroid production.

The TRAb blood test - is divided into three types, stimulating, blocking and neutral antibodies in relation to thyroid production, the TRAb being the stimulating antibody.

From memory, I only had one blood draw, and sufficient blood was taken for several different blood tests.

[pennyannie]

Good morning PurpleNails

I've just picked up on your reply to someone else regarding testing for Graves antibodies, and goitres.

You mention you have had several tests and a RAI uptake scan, and somewhere else that you have some eye issues ?

Please do not agree to RAI treatment as this is known to increase the incidence of thyroid eye disease in some patients, and since you seem to have issues and weakness there already, I don't think it's worth the risk of this treatment option.

Hope you don't mid me jumping here.

[PurpleNails Administrator in reply to pennyannie]

Thank you. I’m worried about the RAI so all views welcome.

I’m told I don’t have graves as my blood test and scan confirm toxic multi nodular goitre. I don’t have eye issues as the bulging & uneven eye appearance has been since birth. I’ve not had glasses until last year at age 40. (For astigmatism). It was only at age 37 a medical professional questioned why I had odd eyes and I had a hospital referral regarding them. Apparently I have one eye 1mm bigger than the other. Thyroid and antibodies were tested back then and were clear. A recent blood test was done test again for TSI and it was <0.10 (range <0.56) The consultant was unconcerned with my eyes and does not believe it will be an issue.