What to do if anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies are too high

High anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-Ab) can be seen in Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves’ disease, primary hypothyroidism, etc. In addition, a small number of patients with subacute thyroiditis and thyroid cancer may also have elevated levels. The treatments for different diseases are different, and the cause-specific treatments should be adopted after a clear diagnosis. 1. Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: patients may have positive TPO-Ab; when the thyroid function is normal and the clinical symptoms are not obvious, there is no need for special treatment, and regular checkups can be done; when the thyroid function is abnormal, and there are symptoms of pressure, treatment is needed, such as β-blockers, thyroid hormone replacement therapy, surgical treatment and so on. 2. Graves’ disease: TPO-Ab positivity is an auxiliary indicator for diagnosing Graves’ disease, especially for TR-Ab negative patients; anti-thyroid drugs, radioactive iodine, surgery and other methods can be used for treatment. 3. Primary hypothyroidism: high TPO-Ab can also occur; it can be treated with drugs such as levothyroxine sodium for replacement therapy. 4. Others: A small number of patients with subacute thyroiditis and thyroid cancer may also have elevated TPO-Ab, which should be treated symptomatically or causally. Patients with high anti-thyroid peroxidase antibodies are advised to consult a doctor in time and combine with other tests, such as thyroid function, thyroid ultrasound, thyroid puncture biopsy, etc., to make a clear diagnosis.