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TSH receptor antibodies
(a.k.a TRAbs)
minimum sample volume required ~ 5ml
Test Code: TRA
Special instructions
Reference ranges:
<2.2: Negative
2.2 - 3.3: Equivocal
>3.3: Positive
Tube type: SST
Sent away
to Southmead Hospital
Units
IU/L
Turnaround Time
8
days
Department: Immunology
Clinical Application
TRAbs are antibodies directed against the TSH receptor. They may act in a stimulatory or suppressive manner on the TSH receptor.
TRAbs are present in 95% of people with autoimmune hyperthyroidism (Grave’s disease) and in <2% of those without thyroid disease. Measurement of TRAbs is useful for differentiating Graves’ disease from other causes of hyperthyroidism, such as toxic nodular disease and transient thyroiditis.
Measurement of TRAbs is recommended under limited scenarios:
1. New presentation of hyperthyroidism (may be added by laboratory).
2. Pregnant women with a history of Graves’ (Antenatal Endocrinology).
3. Considering cessation of anti-thyroid drugs (Endocrinology).
4. For radioactive iodine and determining need for steroids (Endocrinology).
Webpage updated: September 2024.
