TRAb (TSH Receptor Binding Antibody) Test
This test measures TSH receptor antibodies, known as TRAb, in a blood sample. Quest describes it as used to evaluate and manage Graves' disease, neonatal hypothyroidism and postpartum thyroid dysfunction.
About this test
TRAb is measured using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) on a serum sample. The test reports antibodies' ability to block TSH from binding to its receptor, which reflects the presence of stimulatory and inhibitory antibody types in the blood, rather than a single simple yes-or-no marker.
People who talk with their clinician about a TRAb test are often already being evaluated or followed for Graves' disease or a related thyroid condition, including situations around pregnancy and the postpartum period where thyroid antibody status can inform ongoing management. Because TRAb testing is one part of that broader picture, a result is generally weighed alongside symptoms, other thyroid test results and the person's history rather than read on its own.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports one value: the level of TSH receptor binding antibody activity in serum. Because the assay measures antibodies' ability to block TSH from binding its receptor, the result reflects both stimulatory and inhibitory antibody activity, which a clinician reads together with clinical findings and other thyroid results, since the same assay cannot distinguish which type of antibody is present on its own.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures TSH receptor binding antibody activity in a serum sample, using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
How is the sample collected?
The test uses a serum sample from a routine blood draw.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
What is TRAb used for?
Quest describes it as used to evaluate and manage Graves' disease, neonatal hypothyroidism and postpartum thyroid dysfunction, read alongside other clinical and laboratory findings.
Is TRAb the same as thyroid stimulating immunoglobulin (TSI)?
No. Both relate to antibodies affecting the TSH receptor, but TRAb and TSI are separate Quest products that use different methods and are listed separately.