Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No fasting required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
- Turnaround: 1-3 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb), an autoantibody directed against the thyroid cell receptor for thyroid-stimulating hormone. This is an antibody test, not a direct measurement of thyroid hormone levels such as T3 or T4. The presence of this antibody reflects an immune response that can drive thyroid cell activity rather than the amount of hormone your thyroid is producing.
Thyrotropin receptor antibody can be detected in most patients with Graves' disease and plays a role in the underlying process of that condition. It is also found in some individuals with normal thyroid hormone levels who have Graves' disease. This test result is reported as an antibody measurement and should be distinguished from thyroid hormone testing or thyroid-binding protein testing.
Benefits
- Identifies presence of thyrotropin receptor autoantibodies
- Supports evaluation related to Graves' disease
- May assist in prediction of hyperthyroidism relapse
- May assist in prediction of neonatal hyperthyroidism risk
- Provides antibody information distinct from thyroid hormone levels
Who Is This Test For?
- Adults being evaluated for Graves' disease
- Individuals with a healthcare provider monitoring thyroid autoimmune activity
- People with a history of hyperthyroidism being assessed for relapse risk
- Pregnant individuals whose provider is assessing neonatal hyperthyroidism risk
- Individuals whose provider wants antibody information alongside other thyroid findings
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What is the purpose of this thyroid test?
This test measures thyrotropin receptor antibody (TRAb), an autoantibody that targets the thyroid's receptor for thyroid-stimulating hormone. It helps a healthcare provider evaluate immune activity associated with Graves' disease. This test measures an antibody, not thyroid hormone levels directly, and it does not diagnose a condition on its own.
2. Who would benefit from this test?
People being evaluated for Graves' disease, or those with a history of hyperthyroidism whose provider wants to assess relapse risk, may benefit from this test. Pregnant individuals whose provider is considering neonatal hyperthyroidism risk may also be appropriate candidates. Your healthcare provider can determine whether this test fits your specific situation.
3. When should I order this test?
You may consider this test as part of an evaluation for Graves' disease, or as part of monitoring for relapse of hyperthyroidism when directed by your provider. It may also be used in the context of assessing neonatal hyperthyroidism risk. This test does not replace a full medical evaluation.
4. How does this test differ from other thyroid tests?
This test measures a thyroid antibody (TRAb), not thyroid hormone levels such as T3 or T4, and not a thyroid-binding protein. Unlike thyroid hormone tests, which reflect how much hormone is circulating, this antibody test reflects immune activity directed at the thyroid's TSH receptor. It does not provide the same information as TSH, T3, or T4 testing.
5. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required for this test. You should stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
6. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 1-3 days. This may take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.
7. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your thyrotropin receptor antibody result depends on your symptoms, medical history, medications, supplements, and other laboratory results. This antibody result is often interpreted alongside other thyroid measurements rather than on its own. An abnormal result does not automatically confirm a thyroid condition, and a normal result does not automatically rule one out. Since this test measures an antibody rather than a thyroid hormone, it should not be interpreted as a direct measure of thyroid hormone levels. Discuss your results with a qualified healthcare provider.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
8. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Review any abnormal result with a qualified healthcare provider. This test result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion, and additional evaluation may be considered based on your provider's assessment. Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
9. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider, based on your individual health status and reason for testing. There is no fixed retesting schedule associated with this test.
Pre test preparation
No fasting required. Stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection.
Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
