What is an antithyroglobulin?

Antithyroglobulin is an autoantibody that is directed against thyroglobulin, a protein that is produced by the thyroid gland. Thyroglobulin is essential for the production of thyroid hormones, which regulate a variety of bodily functions, including metabolism, growth, and development.

Antithyroglobulin antibodies can be produced in response to a number of conditions, including:

* Autoimmune thyroiditis: This is a condition in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the thyroid gland, leading to inflammation and damage.

* Graves' disease: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland is overactive, producing too much thyroid hormone.

* Hashimoto's thyroiditis: This is a condition in which the thyroid gland is underactive, producing too little thyroid hormone.

Antithyroglobulin antibodies can also be found in people who have no thyroid problems. In these cases, the antibodies are usually present at low levels and do not cause any symptoms.

However, in some people, antithyroglobulin antibodies can cause a condition called thyrotoxicosis, which is characterized by high levels of thyroid hormone in the blood. Symptoms of thyrotoxicosis can include:

* Weight loss

* Increased appetite

* Increased heart rate

* Nervousness

* Anxiety

* Difficulty sleeping

* Diarrhea

If you have any of these symptoms, it is important to see your doctor to be tested for antithyroglobulin antibodies and other thyroid problems.