Anti-TPO (thyroid peroxidase) antibody test
Quick answer: An anti-TPO test looks for antibodies against thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme in the thyroid, which are a sign of autoimmune thyroid disease such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis. It is ordered when TSH is abnormal, to find the cause of an underactive thyroid, or to judge the chance of thyroid problems developing.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
- In fertility careRaised anti-TPO is linked with a higher chance of thyroid problems in pregnancy, so doctors often check TSH more closely in women who have it.
How the test is done
- 1You sit down and your sleeve is rolled up
- 2A vein in your arm is cleaned
- 3Blood is drawn, often with TSH
- 4A plaster is applied over the spot
What your results can mean
Reading your report
Some people have raised antibodies with normal thyroid function, so it is read with your TSH; discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can point to autoimmune thyroid disease, such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis or Graves' disease, and suggests a higher chance of thyroid problems in future or in pregnancy. A negative result makes autoimmune thyroid disease less likely.
Who usually has this test
People with an abnormal TSH, a goitre or a family history of thyroid disease, and women trying to conceive, in IVF or with recurrent miscarriage.
Risks and aftercare
There is no downtime, and slight soreness at the needle site usually settles within hours.
Names and options
Also called: anti TPO, TPO antibody, thyroid antibodies
Listed by the hospital as
- ANTI THYROPEROXIDASE (ANTI TPO), SERUM
Questions about this test
What does a positive anti-TPO result mean if my TSH is normal?
It means your immune system is targeting the thyroid, but the gland is still working normally for now. Your doctor may recheck your TSH from time to time, and more often if you are trying to conceive or pregnant.
Is anti-TPO linked with miscarriage?
Some studies have linked raised anti-TPO with a higher chance of miscarriage, though the reasons are not fully clear. Doctors usually focus on keeping TSH in the right range before and during pregnancy.
Do I need treatment for a positive anti-TPO?
The antibodies themselves are not treated. If your thyroid becomes underactive, your doctor may start thyroxine. When trying to conceive or pregnant, your doctor may treat at a lower TSH level.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
Reception
Waiting area
IVF lab
This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.