Anti-TPO Antibodies
Overview
Antithyroperoxidase (TPO) antibodies are directed against thyroperoxidase, an enzyme involved in thyroid hormone production.
Significance
- Antithyroperoxidase enzymes are present in 90-100% of patients with chronic autoimmune (Hashimoto's) thyroiditis, though are also present in other thyroid diseases.
Antithyroperoxidase antibodies are not usually required in the diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism as almost all cases are due to Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
This test is useful for predicting the risk of progression to overt hypothyroidism in patients with subclinical hypothyroidism.
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