Both TPOab and TGab are needed to confirm a diagnosis of Hashimoto's, because some people have one or the other, some have both, so if they aren't both tested, the disease could be missed.
While TPOab is most often associated with Hashimoto's, it can be present in small amounts with other autoimmunes, such as Graves, Pernicious Anemia and Lupus. The definitive test for Graves is always Thyroid Stimulating Immunoglobulin (TSI).
I was diagnosed with Hashimoto's because of a high amount of TPOab. My TGab was negative. I also have PA.
"The point in knowing if you have an actual autoimmune disease, it that you need to keep a look out for possibly getting two more autoimmune disorders.." True, but another reason for knowing is that if Hashimoto's is confirmed, you will know that there will be a need for periodic medication adjustments, as the antibodies destroy the thyroid and it produces less and less hormones. Once hormone levels become pretty steady for a long period of time, it's a pretty sure bet that the thyroid is no longer producing anything.
Yikes. That distinction seems pretty important to me. Thank you!
Most docs that know will do both. One of these is for both Hashi and Graves, I dont remember which one. So thats why its best for both.
And some Drs say, well Hashimoto hypothyroid and just hypothyroid are treated the same so whats the point in wondering.
The point in knowing if you have an actual autoimmune disease, it that you need to keep a look out for possibly getting two more autoimmune disorders..
Thank you, FTB4. I'm learning so much from reading your posts. I don't believe I've ever been tested for TgAb, but my TPO is high and free t3 and t4s are low. I will ask for the TgAb test as well. Thank you!
I beleive you should have both tests done to confirm. FTB4