What are antithyroperoxidases and how to behave in case of high value

What are antithyroperoxidases? Let's see what these thyroid antibodies are for and what to do in case of high values.

Antibodies produced by the immune system, antithyroid peroxidases indicate proper functioning of the thyroid gland . Specifically, when the values ​​are off they could represent the alarm bell for very important autoimmune diseases: let's see what they are and what to do if the blood tests indicate an anomaly.

What are thyroid peroxidase antibodies?

Produced by the immune system , thyroid peroxidase antibodies mistakenly attack thyroid peroxidase. The latter is an enzyme that plays a key role in the production of thyroid hormones such as thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3) . Generally, the immune system produces antibodies to defend the body from external aggressions perpetuated by viruses and bacteria.

When they don't work properly, however, they attack elements of the body itself, considered 'good'. This is the case with antithyroid peroxidases: the antibodies do not recognize and, consequently, attack the thyroid peroxidase (Tpo).

To evaluate the correct functioning of the thyroid antibody, the doctor prescribes a blood test concerning the value to be investigated. Generally, this test is essential for detecting the presence of some important autoimmune thyroid diseases , namely Graves' disease and Hashimoto's thyroiditis . In some cases, the doctor may also order an Atg test, which is useful for evaluating the presence of anti-thyroglobulin antibodies.

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High thyroid antibodies: what to do?

When blood tests show high anti-thyroid peroxidase, it is highly probable that there is an autoimmune disease of the thyroid. It should be noted that a high value of this antibody can also indicate other diseases, such as: Addison's disease, thyroid adenoma or tumor, multinodular goiter, type 1 diabetes and autoimmune collagen diseases. The cure, of course, will be established on the basis of the reference problem, which can also be identified through thyroid tests .

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