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Thyroglobulin
(a.k.a Thyroglobulin AND thyroglobulin antibodies)
minimum sample volume required ~ 5ml
Test Code: TGL
Tube type: SST
Special instructions
Please note: All samples are also analysed for thyroglobulin antibodies as their presence can interfere with the assay for thyroglobulin.
Sent away
to Bristol Royal Infirmary. On occasion samples may be sent to Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham, for analysis by a different method.
Reference range
<0.1 µg/L (only in thyroid cancer patients, after total thyroidectomy and I131 ablation)
Units
µg/L (thyroglobulin) KU/L (thyroglobulin antibodies)
Turnaround Time
7
days
Department: Biochemistry
Clinical Application
Thyroglobulin is a glycoprotein produced by thyroid follicular cells, in response to TSH, and is stored in the follicular colloid of the thyroid gland.
Measurement of thyroglobulin is useful as a tumour marker in monitoring disease recurrence post total/completion thyroidectomy in those with a history of differentiated thyroid cancer. Detectable levels of thyroglobulin in those without thyroglobulin antibodies may suggest residual thyroid tissue, or residual/recurrent thyroid cancer.
NICE does not recommend routine measurement of thyroglobulin in those without total/completion thyroidectomy.
Webpage updated: March 2024.
