Antibodies to thyroglobulin-AT-TG

Thyroglobulin antibodies (AT-TG): role, symptoms of imbalance, and norms

1. The role of AT-TG in the body

Thyroglobulin (TG) is a precursor protein for thyroid hormones (T3 and T4), and AT– TG is an autoantibody that attacks this protein. Their presence indicates autoimmune processes in the thyroid gland.

Thyroglobulin functions:

• Storage of iodine for the synthesis of T3 and T4.
• Participation in the production of thyroid hormones.

Why determine AT-TG?
These antibodies are a marker of autoimmune thyroid damage. , and their level increases when:

• Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s disease).
• Diffuse toxic goiter (Graves ‘ disease).
• Thyroid cancer (monitoring after removal of the gland).

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2. Symptoms of excess AT-TG (autoimmune thyroiditis)

A high level of AT-TG indicates the destruction of thyroid tissue, which leads to:

• Hypothyroidism (if the gland is damaged):
• Weakness, fatigue.
• Weight gain, swelling.
• Dry skin, hair loss.
• Depression, constipation.
• Hyperthyroidism (at the beginning of the disease, with a temporary release of hormones):
• Irritability, anxiety.
• Weight loss, sweating.
• Rapid heartbeat.
• Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter).

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3. Symptoms of AT-TG deficiency

A low level or lack of AT-TG is normal, but if there are symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, the cause may be:

• Non-autoimmune hypothyroidism (iodine deficiency, congenital disorders).
• Subacute thyroiditis (viral inflammation).
• Taking thyroid hormones (artificial suppression of TG).

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4. Norms of AT-TG in the blood test

Notes:

• In 5-10% of healthy people , a moderately elevated level without pathology is possible.
• In women over 50 years of age, AT-TG is often elevated without clinical manifestations.

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5. When is the test scheduled?

• Diagnosis of autoimmune thyroiditis.
• Control of Graves ‘ disease.
• Monitoring of thyroid cancer recurrence (after surgery).
• Examination for infertility or miscarriages (if an autoimmune process is suspected).

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6. Additional research

• AT-TPO (antibodies to thyroperoxidase) is a more specific marker of autoimmune thyroiditis.
• TSH, T3, T4 – assessment of thyroid function.
• Ultrasound of the thyroid gland -detection of structural changes.

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7. What should I do in case of deviations?

• If AT-TG is elevated, but the hormones are normal:
• Follow-up with an endocrinologist 1-2 times a year.
• TSH and ultrasound monitoring.
• If you have hypothyroidism:
• L-thyroxine replacement therapy.
• If cancer is suspected:
• Node biopsy, treatment by an oncologist.

Important! AT-TG is not the cause of the disease, but a marker of the autoimmune process. .Thyroid dysfunction is treated not by antibodies, but by thyroid dysfunction.