Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Receptor Antibody (TRAb)
Also known as: TR AB
Use
The Thyroid Stimulating Hormone Receptor Antibody (TRAb) test is used primarily as an aid for the diagnosis of autoimmune thyroid diseases, including Graves' disease. TRAb levels are measured to detect antibodies that bind to and stimulate the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor, leading to excess production of thyroid hormones and clinical symptoms. This test can help differentiate between different types of thyroid dysfunction and monitor treatment efficacy.
Special Instructions
TRAb tests must be handled carefully to ensure accurate results. Serum must be separated from cells as soon as possible to prevent degradation of antibodies that could affect the test outcome. The test requires precise specimen collection and processing instructions to maintain the integrity of the sample.
Limitations
TRAb test results can be affected by pre-analytical and analytical factors including sample handling, storage, and the presence of interfering substances like hemolysis or lipemia. It may not detect all antibodies related to thyroid disease, and negative results do not rule out the presence of thyroid autoimmunity. Additionally, positive results need to be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests as TRAb may not always correlate with the clinical severity of autoimmune thyroid disease.
FDA ApprovedNew York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 5385-0
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.3 mL
Container
ARUP standard transport tube
Collection Instructions
Allow serum separator tube to sit for 15-20 minutes at room temperature for proper clot formation. Centrifuge and separate serum from cells as soon as possible or within 2 hours of collection.
Storage Instructions
Preferred transport temperature is frozen. Refrigerated is also acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
Plasma and grossly hemolyzed or lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | 6 days |
| Frozen | 12 months |