Experiencing symptoms of hyperthyroidism or wondering if your overactive thyroid could be caused by an autoimmune condition like Graves' disease?
Detect autoimmune thyroid conditions with our Thyroid Receptor Antibodies test. This specialised test identifies antibodies that can cause hyperthyroidism, helping diagnose Graves' disease and guide treatment decisions for optimal thyroid health management.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
Think of thyroid receptor antibodies as molecular identity thieves that can hijack your thyroid's control system. When your immune system gets confused and mistakenly attacks your own thyroid gland, it creates these rogue antibodies that impersonate your body's natural thyroid regulators. Unlike your body's carefully balanced hormone signals, these imposters continuously overstimulate your thyroid, causing it to pump out excessive amounts of thyroid hormones—leaving you feeling like your internal engine is constantly revving in overdrive with symptoms like rapid heartbeat, unexplained weight loss, and persistent anxiety.
This test is particularly valuable because it can pinpoint whether your overactive thyroid symptoms stem from autoimmune stimulation (most commonly Graves' disease) or other causes, which is crucial since different root causes require completely different treatment approaches. It's also essential monitoring for pregnant women with a history of thyroid autoimmune conditions, as these antibodies can cross over to affect their developing baby's thyroid function, making early detection and management vital for both mother and child.
Reviewed by Dr. Vu Tran Bloody Good’s Chief Medical Officer
You may benefit from the Thyroid Receptor Antibodies Blood Test
Essential for anyone with symptoms of hyperthyroidism, particularly those with family history of autoimmune thyroid disease. Important for diagnosing Graves' disease, monitoring treatment effectiveness, and assessing pregnancy risks in women with thyroid autoimmune conditions. Valuable for distinguishing between different causes of hyperthyroidism.
Feeling tired all the time
Always feeling hot or overheated
Heart palpitations or racing heart
Feeling restless or agitated
Enlarged thyroid gland or goiter
How to prepare
No fasting required. Morning collection before 10 AM recommended for optimal accuracy. Avoid biotin supplements for 3 days before testing. If taking anti-thyroid medications, maintain usual schedule unless specifically advised otherwise. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, particularly those affecting immune function.
Understanding results
Normal range: <1.75 IU/L. Elevated levels: >1.75 IU/L indicate presence of stimulating antibodies. Moderately elevated: 1.75-10 IU/L; Significantly elevated: >10 IU/L. High levels strongly suggest Graves' disease. Very high levels may predict more severe disease or increased risk of relapse after treatment. Levels typically correlate with disease activity.
After the test
Discuss positive results with an endocrinologist for comprehensive thyroid management. Elevated antibodies typically require anti-thyroid medications, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery depending on severity. Regular monitoring helps track treatment response and disease progression. Pregnant women with positive antibodies need specialized monitoring for both maternal and fetal thyroid function.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thyroid receptor antibodies specifically stimulate the thyroid to produce excess hormones, causing hyperthyroidism. Other thyroid antibodies (TPO, thyroglobulin) typically cause inflammation and destruction, leading to hypothyroidism.
Yes, these antibodies can cross the placenta and potentially cause fetal or neonatal hyperthyroidism. Pregnant women with a history of Graves' disease require careful monitoring even if currently treated.
Higher antibody levels often indicate more active disease and may predict likelihood of remission. Declining levels during treatment suggest good response, while persistently high levels may indicate need for more aggressive therapy.
While stress doesn't directly cause antibodies, it can trigger or worsen autoimmune conditions including Graves' disease in genetically susceptible individuals. Stress management is an important part of overall treatment.
During active treatment, testing every 3-6 months helps guide therapy. After achieving remission, annual monitoring may detect early relapse. Frequency depends on treatment type and disease stability.
Yes, with successful treatment, antibody levels often decline significantly and may become undetectable. However, they can potentially rise again if the autoimmune process reactivates.
You will be emailed a referral to take to your local collection centre. If you ever have any questions, we're here to help.
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1
Book your test
Choose the testing that suits your goals. After ordering, you will receive your referral by email.
2
Collect your samples
Have your sample collected at one of our 4000+ partner collection centres.
3
View your results
View your lab results and receive a personalised review from the secure Bloody Good platform.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions about our products and services.
Most collection centres accept walk-ins. Some may require a booking - check details when you click on your chosen location.
If your test needs fasting, we’ll include that in your instructions after you order. Fasting usually means no food for 8–12 hours, but water is fine.
Just your pathology referral form (we email it to you)
Of course. Just maybe don’t bring the friend who faints at the sight of blood.
They’re the highly trained professionals who take your blood sample - with a steady hand and a sharp needle. They love blood, but don’t worry… they’re not vampires. Just legends who make blood tests quick, clean, and (almost) painless.
Some of our tests include Urine, Stool, Saliva and more. Each test will have a clear description on what sample you will need to give and instructions on how.
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