Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (Anti Microsomal Antibodies)

The Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies test is a diagnostic check that helps gauge the levels of Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies in the bloodstream. The thyroid glands in the body produce these antibodies, which are a part of the endocrine system.

This tiny, butterfly-shaped gland exists in your throat and releases hormones responsible for energy regulation. These hormones also play an essential part in regulating body temperature, weight, and strength. The production of these hormones is due to an enzyme called Thyroid Peroxidase.

When your body mistakes these enzymes for a foreign substance, it produces Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies. This condition is known as an autoimmune disease and can pave the way for disorders like Hashimoto’s disease or Grave’s disease.

The aforementioned antibodies attack various enzymes and hormones like:

• Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO)
• Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor
• Thyroglobulin (Tg)

The Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies test carefully measures the levels of these hormones and enzymes and detects the presence of autoimmune diseases. Hashimoto’s disease entails hypothyroidism, a condition characterised by deficit of hormones due to thyroid dysfunction. This is mainly because of high levels of TP antibodies in your bloodstream.

The cause of the disease is still unknown. However, genetics and hormones have a huge part to play. Furthermore, other factors that can cause the above ailment are radiation exposure, excessive iodine, etc.
Here are some of the symptoms that the condition may trigger:

• Hair loss
• Fatigue
• Weight gain 
• Depression
• Irregular menstrual periods 
• Lower tolerance for cold
• Slowed heart rate 
• Paleness of the face 
• Muscle and joint pain 
• Constipation

On the other hand, the test may also detect the presence of Grave’s disease. This autoimmune disease is characterised by hyperthyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone.

The disease usually exists among people between the age of 30 and 50. Individuals with a family history of thyroid issues are at risk of contracting the autoimmune disease. Smoking cigarettes is another factor that might play a role. Furthermore, one can contract Grave’s disease if having any of the following autoimmune conditions:

• Lupus
• Type 1 diabetes
• Celiac disease 
• Vitiligo 
• Rheumatoid arthritis

Here are some of the most notable symptoms of the above ailment:

• Bulging of the eyes
• Weight loss
• Trouble sleeping 
• Anxiety 
• Elevated heart rate
• Low tolerance to high temperatures
• Tremors in the hand

So, if you start experiencing any of the following symptoms, it is better to consult a doctor who will likely ask to undergo a Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies test. It is available at Apollo 24|7 and can easily be booked through their website.

No special preparations are required to undergo the test. However, your healthcare provider may ask you to stop taking medications that will tamper with your thyroid levels (certain heart medications, steroids, thyroid replacement drugs, etc.)