TBG level is a blood test to measure the level of a protein that moves thyroid hormone throughout your body. The protein is called thyroxine binding globulin (TBG).
A blood sample is needed. For information on how this is done, see: Venipuncture
The sample is then taken to the laboratory where it is examined using special tests such as electrophoresis or radioimmunoassay.
Certain drugs and medicines can affect test results. Your doctor may tell you to temporarily stop taking a certain medicine before the test. Never stop taking any medicine without first talking to your doctor.
The following drugs can increase TBG levels:
The following drugs can decrease TBG levels:
Certain medical conditions may also affect TBG levels. For example, TBG results may be increased in people with acute intermittent porphyria, HIV, or severe liver disease. They may be reduced in people with kidney failure or liver disease.
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, you may feel moderate pain, or only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
This test may be done to diagnose problems with your thyroid, including thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism.
If electrophoresis is used, normal values may range from 10 mg/100 mL - 24 mg/100 mL.
If radioimmunoassay is used, then a normal range is 1.3 - 2.0 mg/100 mL.
Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
The examples above show the common measurements for results for these tests. Some laboratories use different measurements or may test different specimens.
Increased TBG levels may be due to:
Note: TBG levels are normally high in newborns.
Decreased TBG levels may be due to:
Veins and arteries vary in size from one patient to another and from one side of the body to the other. Obtaining a blood sample from some people may be more difficult than from others.
Other risks associated with having blood drawn are slight but may include:
Serum thyroxine binding globulin; TBG level; Serum TBG level
Updated by: Frank A. Greco, MD, PhD, Director, Biophysical Laboratory, The Lahey Clinic, Burlington, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch).
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 1997-2012, A.D.A.M., Inc. Duplication for commercial use must be authorized in writing by ADAM Health Solutions.