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

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

This test measures your thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) level and checks for antibodies to thyroglobulin, a protein produced by thyroid cells. It helps evaluate thyroid function and detect autoimmune thyroid diseases.

Quick summary

["Assess thyroid health and autoimmune thyroid conditions with a combined TSH and antibody test."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
56635-6
Short code
Thyroglob IgG Ser-aCnc
Synonyms
Thyroglob IgG Ser-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 Matters

Your TSH level helps determine whether your thyroid is working too slowly (hypothyroidism) or too quickly (hyperthyroidism). Antibodies to thyroglobulin may indicate an autoimmune disorder like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, where the immune system mistakenly attacks thyroid cells.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed for TSH. Antibody testing may require fasting or timing around thyroid medication, so check with your provider. Blood is drawn from a vein in your arm.

What the Results Mean

TSH results alone guide thyroid function, while antibody presence suggests an autoimmune response. Together, they help diagnose or monitor thyroid disorders.

Common Conditions This Test Helps Identify

This test is often used in thyroid cancer monitoring (after treatment) to check for recurrence or in diagnosing autoimmune thyroid diseases like Hashimoto’s or Graves’ disease.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

TSH + Thyroglobulin Antibody Screen

Frequently asked questions

What triggers this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of thyroid problems (e.g., fatigue, weight gain/loss), a family history of thyroid disease, or if you’ve had thyroid cancer treatment.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times.
Can I take thyroid medication before this test?
Yes, but inform your provider—some medications (like levothyroxine) may affect TSH levels, so timing may need adjustment.
  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