Thyroglobulin
What is Thyroglobulin?
Thyroglobulin (Tg) is a protein produced by the thyroid gland, which is found in very small amounts in the blood. It is an important biomarker for assessing thyroid function and for monitoring the progression of thyroid cancer or other diseases.
Preparation for Thyroglobulin Test
For the thyroglobulin test, you may be asked to fast for at least 8 hours prior to the test. During this time, you should not eat, drink, or take any medications. You may also be asked to stop taking certain medications for about a week before the test that may affect the test results.
Types of Thyroglobulin Tests
- Thyroglobulin Antibody Test – Measures the body’s production of antibodies to thyroglobulin.
- Thyroglobulin Level Test – Measures the level of thyroglobulin present in the blood.
- Thyroglobulin Stimulation Test – Measures the amount of thyroglobulin produced in response to a thyroid hormone.
Why is the Thyroglobulin Test done?
The thyroglobulin test is used to help diagnose and monitor certain thyroid conditions. It can also help to monitor the progress of treatment for conditions such as thyroid cancer.
When is the Thyroglobulin Test done?
The thyroglobulin test may be used to:
- Monitor a person with a history of thyroid cancer to check for any signs it has come back or spread.
- Diagnose hypothyroidism in people with symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and depression.
- Detec local or metastatic thyroid cancer.
- Evaluate the effectiveness of a particular treatment for thyroid cancer.
Risks associated with Thyroglobulin Test
The thyroglobulin test is generally considered safe with no major risks. The most common risk associated with the test is a slight risk of infection due to the needle being inserted into the vein.