Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies LabCorp

What is this test?

The Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies Test measures TPO antibody levels, which can help diagnose hypothyroidism and thyroid disease. High concentrations of TPO antibodies are found in patients with autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto's Thyroiditis, Idiopathic Myxedema, and Grave's Disease. Autoimmune disorders relating to the thyroid are typically caused by the production of autoantibodies, which makes the Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies Test a useful diagnostic tool.

Thyroid Peroxidase is an enzyme that plays an important function in the production of thyroid hormones. An elevated level of TPO antibodies means that your immune system is responding abnormally to TPO and reducing its effectiveness.

Who is this test for?

This test can help diagnose thyroid dysfunction for those who are experiencing symptoms of hypothyroidism or autoimmune thyroid diseases. These symptoms include dry skin and hair, depression, fatigue, general lack of interest, slowed heart rate, sensitivity to cold, and weight gain. This test can also be used to monitor disease management in those who have already been diagnosed with thyroid dysfunction. The Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO) Antibodies Test is often ordered together with other thyroid-specific tests to form a Complete Thyroid Panel that analyzes overall thyroid health.