Thyroid Antibodies

[TerriD33]

I recently had several tests done because I have all kinds of symptoms including massvie weight gain, fatigue, excessively dry skin, constipation, dry mouth, hair loss, loss of sex drive, & difficulty becoming pregnant. My endocrinologist tested my glucose levels, and thyroid. I called in for the results & was negative in the glucose, but was told I was positive fro Thyroid antibodies. My appoinment with him is not until almost two months away, What are the questions I should ask upon seeing him again? What exactly is thyroid antibodies? Does it matter that all the women in my family have thyroid disease? Should I be concerned if this doctor says not to worry?

[Mark Lupo, M.D.]

Ask about Hashimoto's and if the TSH is borderline elevated (>3) then thyroid hormone treatment may be helpful.  Ask for a thyroid ultrasound as chronic inflammation (hashimoto's) does increase the risk of nodules and cancer.

[roo6637]

A related discussion, results of ultrasound and bloodwork was started.

[kitcurious]

http://www.labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/thyroid_antibodies/test.html

No spin site :-)

[rgtpgrl1]

http://thyroid.about.com/cs/basics_starthere/a/antibody.htm

This might explain some things.  I found it helpful.  

good luck