Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies

Overview

Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti-TPO) are made by the immune system and may attack the thyroid by mistake. These antibodies target an enzyme called thyroid peroxidase, which helps the thyroid gland produce important hormones (T4 and T3). These hormones control many body functions, like energy levels and metabolism. If Anti-TPO antibodies are present, they may interfere with thyroid function and lead to thyroid conditions. High levels of these antibodies are often seen in autoimmune conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. Testing for Anti-TPO antibodies can help doctors understand if thyroid issues might be caused by the immune system.

Testing Levels:

• High ( U/ml) - Higher Anti-TPO levels may mean that the immune system is attacking the thyroid, which could cause problems like underactive or overactive thyroid (hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism). These antibodies are commonly seen in conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease. Symptoms may include tiredness, weight changes, or mood changes, but not everyone with high Anti-TPO levels will have symptoms. Your doctor may recommend monitoring or treatment if thyroid function is affected.
  
  
• Mid - Anti-TPO levels within the reference range suggest that there may not be any immune attack on the thyroid at the moment. This is generally a good sign, but thyroid health should still be monitored if you have symptoms or risk factors.
  
  Anti-TPO levels near the upper limit may suggest a mild or early autoimmune process, but they don’t always lead to thyroid problems. It might be a sign to keep an eye on thyroid health over time, especially if there are other risk factors or symptoms. Lifestyle changes, like reducing stress and improving your diet, may help.
  
  Anti-TPO levels close to the lower end of the range likely mean the immune system is not targeting the thyroid. This is usually not a cause for concern, but if you have thyroid symptoms, other tests may be needed.
  
  
• Low ( U/ml) - Low or undetectable Anti-TPO levels usually mean there’s no autoimmune activity affecting the thyroid. This is considered normal, but if thyroid symptoms exist, other causes may need to be explored.

Why We Test Anti-Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies

Testing Anti-TPO levels can help find out if thyroid problems might be due to autoimmune activity. It is especially useful if you have symptoms of thyroid issues, a family history of thyroid disease, or during pregnancy when thyroid health is important. Early testing may help prevent or manage thyroid problems more effectively.

What Affects It

Anti-TPO levels may be influenced by autoimmune activity, genetics, stress, infections, or changes in iodine intake. Hormonal changes, like those during pregnancy or menopause, may also play a role. Certain deficiencies, such as vitamin D or selenium, and some medications may increase these antibodies.

How to Improve

If Anti-TPO levels are high or close to the high range, managing immune activity may help. This could include lifestyle changes like a balanced diet, getting enough selenium and vitamin D, and reducing stress. Selenium supplements have been shown to help lower these antibodies in some people. If Anti-TPO levels are normal or low, no action is usually needed, but keeping a healthy lifestyle may support overall thyroid health.

Common Name: Anti-TPO