thyroglobulin antibody
Also written as: TgAb — thyroglobulin antibody
Autoantibodies that interfere with thyroglobulin measurement as a tumor marker.
Full Definition
Antibodies directed against thyroglobulin that can significantly interfere with serum thyroglobulin measurements used for thyroid cancer surveillance. The presence of these antibodies makes thyroglobulin unreliable as a tumor marker, necessitating alternative monitoring strategies such as anti-thyroglobulin antibody trending or imaging studies. These antibodies are found in approximately 25% of thyroid cancer patients and can persist for years following thyroidectomy.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from other thyroid antibodies; specify impact on tumor marker interpretation.
In Context
- "Elevated thyroglobulin antibody levels make serum thyroglobulin unreliable for cancer surveillance." — Laboratory interpretation
- "Patients with positive thyroglobulin antibody require alternative monitoring strategies for recurrence detection." — Follow-up protocol