Thyroglobulin Canine

Thyroglobulin is a large protein that serves as a precursor for thyroid hormones. It contains tyrosine residues, which are iodinated to form monoiodotyrosine (MIT) and diiodotyrosine (DIT). These iodinated tyrosines couple to form T4 and T3, which are then released into the bloodstream to regulate metabolism.

In dogs, autoimmune thyroiditis is a common cause of hypothyroidism. This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly targets and destroys the thyroid gland, leading to reduced production of thyroid hormones. One of the key markers of autoimmune thyroiditis is the presence of thyroglobulin autoantibodies (TgAA) in the serum .

Testing for TgAA is crucial for diagnosing autoimmune thyroiditis in dogs. Elevated levels of TgAA indicate an autoimmune response against the thyroid gland. This test is particularly important for screening breeding stock, as dogs with positive TgAA results should not be bred to prevent the hereditary transmission of the disease .

Hypothyroidism, resulting from autoimmune thyroiditis, is the most common endocrine disorder in dogs. It leads to a variety of clinical signs, including lethargy, weight gain, hair loss, and skin problems. Accurate diagnosis and treatment are essential for managing the condition and improving the quality of life for affected dogs .

The primary treatment for hypothyroidism in dogs is synthetic sodium levothyroxine, which replaces the deficient thyroid hormones. Regular monitoring of thyroid hormone levels is necessary to ensure the effectiveness of the treatment and to adjust the dosage as needed .