In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, what antibody is commonly elevated?

In Hashimoto's thyroiditis, the most commonly elevated antibody is anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies. This autoimmune thyroid disorder is characterized by the destruction of thyroid tissue due to an immune-mediated process, and the presence of these antibodies indicates this autoimmune response.

Anti-TPO antibodies target the enzyme thyroid peroxidase, which is essential in the process of thyroid hormone synthesis. Elevated levels of these antibodies are often found in patients with Hashimoto's, serving as an important marker for diagnosis.

While anti-thyroglobulin antibodies may also be present in Hashimoto's thyroiditis, anti-TPO is more specific and is typically measured first in clinical evaluations. The other types of antibodies mentioned, such as TSH receptor antibodies and thyroid stimulating antibodies, are more associated with other thyroid conditions, such as Graves’ disease, rather than Hashimoto's thyroiditis. Thus, the identification of elevated anti-TPO antibodies is central to understanding the pathology of Hashimoto's and its implications for thyroid function.