Antibodies to thyroglobulin-AT-TG

Thyroglobulin antibodies (AT-TG): role, symptoms of imbalance, and norms

1. The role of AT-TG in the body

Thyroglobulin (TG) is a precursor protein for thyroid hormonesHormones are biologically active substances that are produced by specialized cells or glands (such as endocrine glands) and regulate various physiological processes in the body. They act as chemical signals that are transmitted through the bloodstream to organs and tissues to control and coordinate a wide range of functions, including metabolism, growth and development, reproduction, mood, and more. Examples include insulin, testosterone, estrogen, and adrenaline. (T3 and T4), and AT– TG is an autoantibody that attacks this protein. Their presence indicates autoimmune processes in the thyroid gland.

Thyroglobulin functions:

Storage of iodine for the synthesis of T3 and T4.
Participation in the production of thyroid hormones.

Why determine AT-TG?
These antibodies are a marker of autoimmune thyroid damage. , and their level increases when:

Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto’s disease).
Diffuse toxic goiter (Graves ‘ disease).
Thyroid cancer (monitoring after removal of the gland).

2. Symptoms of excess AT-TG (autoimmune thyroiditis)

A high level of AT-TG indicates the destruction of thyroid tissue, which leads to:

Hypothyroidism (if the gland is damaged):
Weakness, fatigue.
Weight gain, swelling.
Dry skin, hair loss.
Depression, constipation.
Hyperthyroidism (at the beginning of the disease, with a temporary release of hormones):
Irritability, anxiety.
Weight loss, sweating.
Rapid heartbeat.
Enlargement of the thyroid gland (goiter).

3. Symptoms of AT-TG deficiency

A low level or lack of AT-TG is normal, but if there are symptoms of thyroid dysfunction, the cause may be:

Non-autoimmune hypothyroidism (iodine deficiency, congenital disorders).
Subacute thyroiditis (viral inflammation).
Taking thyroid hormones (artificial suppression of TG).

4. Norms of AT-TG in the blood test

Condition	Reference values (IU / ml)	Interpretation
Standard	0-18 (depends on the lab)	No autoimmune reaction
Borderline	18–50	The initial stage of the autoimmune process is possible
Increased value	> 50	Autoimmune thyroiditis, Graves ‘ disease

Notes:

In 5-10% of healthy people , a moderately elevated level without pathology is possible.
In women over 50 years of age, AT-TG is often elevated without clinical manifestations.

5. When is the test scheduled?

Diagnosis of autoimmune thyroiditis.
Control of Graves ‘ disease.
Monitoring of thyroid cancer recurrence (after surgery).
Examination for infertility or miscarriages (if an autoimmune process is suspected).

6. Additional research

AT-TPO (antibodies to thyroperoxidase) is a more specific marker of autoimmune thyroiditis.
TSH, T3, T4 – assessment of thyroid function.
Ultrasound of the thyroid gland -detection of structural changes.

7. What should I do in case of deviations?

If AT-TG is elevated, but the hormones are normal:
Follow-up with an endocrinologist 1-2 times a year.
TSH and ultrasound monitoring.
If you have hypothyroidism:
L-thyroxine replacement therapy.
If cancer is suspected:
Node biopsy, treatment by an oncologist.

Important! AT-TG is not the cause of the disease, but a marker of the autoimmune process. .Thyroid dysfunction is treated not by antibodies, but by thyroid dysfunction.