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Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) with Thyroid Antibody Screening (Thyroglobulin Antibody or TPO Antibody)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures your thyroid-stimulating hormone level and checks for antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune thyroid condition.

Quick summary

["Assesses thyroid function and potential autoimmune issues affecting thyroid health."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
10515-5
Short code
Thyroglob Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
Synonyms
Thyroglob Ag Tiss Ql ImStn
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
immune-stain
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, or unexplained thyroid issues. It can also be part of monitoring for thyroid cancer or autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis or Graves’ disease.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll typically provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. No special preparation is needed unless instructed by your healthcare provider. If you’re on thyroid medication, check with your doctor first.

What the Results Mean

TSH levels help diagnose thyroid disorders, while antibodies indicate whether your immune system is attacking thyroid cells. High TSH often means underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low TSH may suggest overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Antibodies may signal autoimmune activity.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Identify

This test can help diagnose or monitor conditions such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, thyroid cancer, or autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto’s disease or Graves’ disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

TSH + Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low TSH level mean?
A high TSH level often suggests an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while a low TSH level may indicate an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism). Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and other test results.
Do thyroid antibodies always mean I have an autoimmune thyroid disease?
Not necessarily. Antibodies can be present in people without symptoms or disease. Your doctor will assess your overall health and other test results to determine if treatment or further evaluation is needed.
Can I eat or drink anything before this test?
You can eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Avoid alcohol or caffeine in excess, as they may affect thyroid hormone levels temporarily.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy