Reasons for high levels of thyroid stimulating hormone receptor antibodies

Elevated levels of thyroid stimulating hormone receptor antibody TRAb are mainly associated with autoimmune thyroid diseases, including Graves' disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, postpartum thyroiditis, recurrent hyperthyroidism, and some patients with thyroid cancer.

1. Graves' disease:

As the main cause of elevated TRAb, Graves' disease is an autoimmune disease in which antibodies stimulate excessive secretion of thyroid hormones by thyroid cells. Patients often present with symptoms such as protruding eyes, thyroid enlargement, and palpitations. Diagnosis should be combined with thyroid function tests and TRAb testing, and treatment includes antithyroid drugs, radioactive iodine therapy, or surgery.

2. Hashimoto's thyroiditis:

In the early stage of chronic lymphocytic thyroiditis, there may be a brief increase in TRAb, which often turns positive for thyroid peroxidase antibody TPOAb as the condition progresses. The typical manifestation is painless thyroid enlargement with functional decline, requiring long-term thyroid hormone replacement therapy. 3. Postpartum thyroiditis: During the process of immune system reconstruction after pregnancy, some mothers may experience transient elevation of TRAb, usually accompanied by fluctuations in thyroid function. Most patients recover on their own within 12-18 months, while a few develop permanent hypothyroidism and require intervention.

4. Hyperthyroidism recurrence period:

Graves' disease patients who continue to have positive TRAb after discontinuation of treatment indicate a risk of recurrence, and antibody levels are positively correlated with disease activity. Monitoring TRAb can help evaluate treatment efficacy and predict prognosis.

5. Thyroid malignant tumors: Approximately 5% -10% of differentiated thyroid cancer patients can detect elevated TRAb, which may be related to abnormal expression of TSH receptors in tumor cells. The diagnosis needs to be confirmed through ultrasound-guided fine needle aspiration biopsy. For individuals with elevated TRAb, it is recommended to have thyroid function and antibody levels rechecked every 3-6 months to avoid a high iodine diet. Daily attention should be paid to monitoring heart rate and weight changes. If there are obvious symptoms such as fear of heat, excessive sweating, hand tremors, or drowsiness and swelling, timely medical attention should be sought. Pregnant women and women preparing for pregnancy should pay special attention to TRAb levels, as excessive levels may affect fetal thyroid development. Moderate exercise such as yoga and swimming can help regulate immune function, but vigorous exercise should be avoided during the uncontrolled period of hyperthyroidism.