Usefulness of TSH receptor antibodies as biomarkers for Graves’ ophthalmopathy: a systematic review

Abstract

Purpose

Over the past several decades, many papers have been published about the usefulness of thyrotropin receptor antibodies (TRAbs) as biomarkers of Graves' ophthalmopathy (GO). However, results have been inconsistent. The purpose of this analysis is to determine a possible cause of these discrepancies and to examine the usefulness of TRAbs as biomarkers for GO, especially 'thyrotropin-binding inhibiting immunoglobulin (TBII)' and 'thyroid-stimulating antibody (TSAb)'.

Method

26 articles discussing the association between TRAbs and GO were selected which were then divided into three groups based on the study method and whether or not the patients had been treated for hyperthyroidism. From the results of the papers reviewed, a provisional conclusion was made and a theoretical model on the TBII–TSAb coordinate plane was developed to confirm that conclusion.

Results

TSAb is reported to be significantly or strongly associated with GO in the studies of pre- and post-treated patients for hyperthyroidism. TBII is positively correlated, negatively correlated or uncorrelated with GO in studies of pre-treated patients. However, it is generally agreed upon that TBII and GO are closely correlated in studies of post-treated patients.

Conclusion

We conclude that the level of TBII may not be a reliable indicator of the current state of GO in pre-treated patients. Whereas, in post-treated patients, due to changes in the correlation between TBII and TSAb due to the effect of hyperthyroidism treatment, the level of TBII can be a more reliable indicator of GO. Furthermore, the current level of TBII is closely associated with the onset and severity of GO in the future and it can be a valid predictor of GO. However, the TSAb level appears to be more reliable.

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