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Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPOAb)

Meaning

Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies (TPOAb) are autoantibodies produced by the immune system that mistakenly target the enzyme Thyroid Peroxidase (TPO), a critical protein required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. The presence of elevated TPOAb is the most common and definitive serological marker for autoimmune thyroid disease, specifically identifying Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Their detection signifies an ongoing, active autoimmune process that is causing chronic inflammation and progressive destruction of the thyroid gland tissue. Clinical measurement of TPOAb is essential for diagnosing, monitoring, and prognosing the course of thyroid autoimmunity.