Prevalence of positive thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO) in patients diagnosed with hypothyroidism

Background: Autoimmune diseases impact a significant portion of the population, with autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) being among the most common. One of the key markers of AITD in hypothyroidism is thyroid peroxidase antibodies (anti-TPO). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of positive anti-TPO in hypothyroidism patients. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted during 2022 at Elribat National Hospital. Participants were screened for hypothyroidism by measuring anti-TPO antibody using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. Results: A total of 90 participants were included, predominantly female, 86 (95.6%), with only four males (4.4%). Among them, 11 participants (12.2%) tested positive for anti-TPO antibodies, while 79 (87.8%) tested negative. The mean age of positive participants was 40.09 years, compared to 43.71 years for those who tested negative. The mean BMI was 40.90 in the positive group and 42.85 in the negative group. Mean total T4 levels were 5.84 µg/dL in positive participants and 7.37 µg/dL in the negative group. Mean TSH levels were higher in positive participants (7.55 mU/L) compared to those who tested negative (4.18 mU/L). Notably, the mean anti-TPO antibody level was significantly elevated in positive participants (2504.27 pg/mL) compared to negative participants (322.66 pg/mL). Conclusion: Hashimoto’s thyroiditis is significantly more prevalent in females than in males. The assessment of anti-TPO antibodies plays a crucial role in diagnosing autoimmune hypothyroidism. Although the presence of anti-TPO antibodies does not directly impact treatment decisions, it provides valuable confirmation of the autoimmune nature of hypothyroidism.