TPO Antibodies
TPO antibodies are antibodies directed at thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme the thyroid uses to make hormones.
TPO antibodies are antibodies directed at thyroid peroxidase, an enzyme the thyroid uses to make hormones. The test measures how many of these antibodies are in the blood. They are read together with thyroid hormones such as TSH and free T4. Retesting shows how it changes over time.
TPO antibodies are more common in women and become more common with age. Family history, pregnancy and the time after giving birth, and iodine intake also play a part.
Foods that help
No food changes the antibody level itself. A varied diet with vegetables, whole grains, legumes and fish, with iodine from iodised salt, dairy and fish, and selenium from fish, eggs and Brazil nuts.
Foods to limit
Very large amounts of iodine, for example from seaweed or iodine supplements. Otherwise no foods need to be avoided because of this value.
Track it through the year
One value is a snapshot. Following it up shows whether what you changed is working.
Related markers
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every result is checked against safe limits, and anything critical is escalated for follow-up.
See all 84 markers →