What is the reason for high thyroid receptor antibodies

Elevated thyroid receptor antibody TRAb is usually caused by autoimmune thyroid diseases, mainly including Graves' disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, postpartum thyroiditis, subacute thyroiditis, and drug factors.

1. Graves' disease:

Graves' disease is the main cause of elevated TRAb and belongs to autoimmune diseases. This antibody can stimulate thyroid cells to secrete thyroid hormones excessively, leading to symptoms of hyperthyroidism such as palpitations, weight loss, and eye protrusion. Laboratory tests showed elevated levels of free T3 and T4, and a significant decrease in TSH. Treatment requires the use of antithyroid drugs such as methimazole, and in severe cases, radioactive iodine therapy or thyroidectomy may be necessary.

2. Hashimoto's thyroiditis:

Hashimoto's thyroiditis patients may be positive for TRAb, but more commonly, the thyroid peroxidase antibody TPOAb is elevated. In the early stages of the disease, a brief hyperthyroidism phase may occur, and in the later stages, it often develops into permanent hypothyroidism. The typical symptoms are thyroid enlargement, fatigue, and fear of cold, requiring long-term supplementation of levothyroxine sodium for treatment. 3. Postpartum thyroiditis: Pregnant women may experience temporary elevation of TRAb due to immune system reconstruction. It usually occurs within 6 months postpartum, and can mostly recover on its own after experiencing hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. About 20% of patients will develop permanent hypothyroidism and require regular monitoring of thyroid function.

4. Subacute thyroiditis: The thyroid inflammatory response caused by

viral infection may lead to transient elevation of TRAb. The characteristic manifestation is neck pain accompanied by fever, and the thyroid function shows a dynamic process of "hyperthyroidism normal hypothyroidism recovery". Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the main treatment, and short-term use of glucocorticoids is required for severe cases.

5. Drug factors:

Certain drugs such as amiodarone, interferon alpha, lithium, etc. may induce thyroid autoimmune reactions, leading to elevated TRAb levels. After discontinuation of medication, antibody levels may gradually decrease, but some patients may develop persistent thyroid dysfunction. Patients with elevated TRAb should maintain a balanced diet, increase intake of trace elements such as selenium and zinc in moderation, and avoid high iodine foods such as seaweed. Regular sleep patterns can help regulate immune function, and it is recommended to engage in 3-5 moderate intensity exercises per week. Smoking can worsen thyroid eye disease, and strict smoking cessation is necessary. Regularly check thyroid function and antibody levels, and seek medical attention promptly when obvious symptoms appear. Pregnant women need to strengthen monitoring, as TRAb may affect fetal thyroid development through the placenta.