Type
Blood Testing
Biomarkers
8
Duration
10 min
Results
3 days
Measures TPO antibodies (anti-thyroid peroxidase) and thyroglobulin antibodies — the markers that detect autoimmune thyroid disease, most commonly Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Thyroid antibodies can be elevated for years or decades before TSH becomes abnormal, making this test the earliest possible detection method for the most common cause of hypothyroidism in Australia. Essential for anyone with thyroid symptoms but 'normal' TSH, or family history of thyroid disease.
Thyroid antibodies — specifically TPO antibodies (anti-thyroid peroxidase) and thyroglobulin antibodies — are the earliest markers of autoimmune thyroid disease. They can be elevated for years or even decades before thyroid hormone levels (TSH, T3, T4) become abnormal, making this test the most sensitive early detection method for Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the leading cause of hypothyroidism in Australia. Hashimoto's thyroiditis is an autoimmune condition where the immune system gradually destroys thyroid tissue. The process is slow — antibodies attack the gland over years, and the thyroid compensates by working harder until it can no longer maintain adequate hormone output. During this compensated phase, TSH and thyroid hormones remain normal on standard tests, and patients are told everything is fine despite experiencing fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, brain fog, and hair loss. Detecting thyroid antibodies during this pre-clinical phase is valuable because it explains current symptoms (antibodies themselves can cause inflammation and fatigue even before hormone levels drop), provides a clear diagnosis to pursue with an endocrinologist, and opens a window for interventions that may slow disease progression — including selenium supplementation, gluten avoidance (in those with coeliac crossover), vitamin D optimisation, and stress management. No fasting is required for this test. ClearLabs delivers results within 2-3 business days, with antibody levels displayed against reference ranges. This test pairs well with the Thyroid Function Test (TSH, T3, T4) and the Thyroid Energy Panel for a complete picture of both thyroid function and autoimmune status.
Key Details
- Markers
- 2 antibody types
- Detects
- Hashimoto's thyroiditis
- Collection fee
- +A$20
Who Is This For?
Hashimoto's screening, 'normal TSH' with thyroid symptoms, family history of thyroid disease, autoimmune investigation
What's Included
Preparation Required
No fasting required.
Panel Categories
Biomarkers Tested
8The active form of thyroid hormone responsible for regulating metabolism, energy, and body temperature. Free T3 is converted from T4 in tissues and is three to four times more potent than T4.
The unbound, active form of the main thyroid hormone T4. Free T4 directly reflects thyroid gland output and is used alongside TSH to diagnose and monitor thyroid disorders.
Free triiodothyronine; high levels indicate hyperthyroidism, low levels hypothyroidism.
Free thyroxine; high levels indicate hyperthyroidism, low levels hypothyroidism.
A group of proteins in blood including antibodies (immunoglobulins), transport proteins, and enzymes. Elevated globulin can indicate chronic infection, inflammation, or blood cancers. Calculated by subtracting albumin from total protein.
An inactive form of T3 produced when the body converts T4. Elevated reverse T3 can occur during illness, stress, or caloric restriction and may indicate impaired thyroid hormone activation despite normal TSH levels.
Antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme essential for thyroid hormone production. Positive TPO antibodies indicate autoimmune thyroid disease, most commonly Hashimoto's thyroiditis, even before symptoms or TSH changes appear.
The primary screening test for thyroid function. TSH is produced by the pituitary gland to regulate thyroid hormone production. High TSH indicates an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism), while low TSH suggests an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).
- Category
- Diagnostic
- Sample Type
- Blood (venous draw)
- Duration
- 10 min
- Results
- 3 days