Thyroglobulin and thyroglobulin antibody: an updated clinical and laboratory expert consensus

Abstract

Objective

Thyroglobulin measurement is the cornerstone of modern management of differentiated thyroid cancer, with clinical decisions on treatment and follow-up based on the results of such measurements. However, numerous factors need to be considered regarding measurement with and interpretation of thyroglobulin assay results.

Design

The present document provides an integrated update to the 2013 and 2014 separate clinical position papers of our group on these issues.

Methods

Issues concerning analytical and clinical aspects of highly-sensitive thyroglobulin measurement will be reviewed and discussed based on an extensive analysis of the available literature.

Results

Thyroglobulin measurement remains a highly complex process with many pitfalls and major sources of interference, especially anti-thyroglobulin antibodies, need to be assessed, considered and, when necessary, dealt with appropriately.

Conclusions

Our expert consensus group formulated 53 practical, graded recommendations for guidance on highly-sensitive thyroglobulin and TgAb in laboratory and clinical practice, especially valuable where current guidelines do not offer sufficient guidance.