Can anybody explain what TGAB antibodies are?

[Diblin93]

My TPO antibodies are 556 iu/ml and I know that means that I have hashimotos. However my TGAB antibodies are 12.9 iu/ml, which is at the bottom of the normal range (range 0 - 115). I just wanted to know what the significance of TGAB is. Thanks

[humanbean]

Click on the plus signs on this link for more info on thyroid antibodies :

labtestsonline.org.uk/tests...

[radd]

Diblin93,

TPOAb stands for thyroid peroxidase antibodies which can attack an enzyme found in your thyroid gland called thyroid peroxidase. TgAb stands for thyroglobulin antibodies which can attack a key protein in the thyroid gland called thyroglobulin causing a gradual destruction of follicles in the thyroid gland. Thyroid peroxidase and thyroglobulin are both essential in the production of T4/T3 thyroid hormones.

TPOAb antibodies are more common than TgAb and more indicative for thyroid disease but having one type or both will determine Hashimotos if symptomatic, although many people live with good well being whilst having these antibodies. This evidences it is not just the antibody presence but a whole myriad of other conditions that results in the antibody becoming destructive, and there is even thought that some are beneficial and required.

Both antibodies are immunoglobulin G class but initiate a slightly differing influence on the immune system with elevated TPOAb being responsible for the destructive inflammation that can reside throughout the body in Hashimotos. This not only causes all those aches and pains but actually changes the action of enzymes (deiodinases) that mediate the (in)activation of thyroid hormone and dictates how well our thyroid hormone replacement meds work.

Thyroid antibodies have also been detected in those without thyroid disorders but suffering other autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and celiac disease. Research shows there is much cross-over in those with dysregulating immune systems and one autoimmune condition usually predisposes a person to others.

TgAb is used to monitor progress after surgery for thyroid cancer. Unless you have had thyroid cancer I would say the significance of low or undetectable TgAb is irrelevant when you have elevated TPOAb. Overall when we are ill, it is better to try reducing elevated antibody levels but when healthy, these antibodies appear to be of little consequence or even beneficial.

[Diblin93 in reply to radd]

Thank you. Great explanation👍