What's this test for?

This test helps if you've been treated for thyroid cancer and need to monitor for signs of the cancer coming back. It's also useful if you have a goiter or thyroid swelling that needs further evaluation. This test is not used to diagnose thyroid cancer in the first place — it's a monitoring tool for people already in treatment or follow-up care.

What's included in this test?

This test measures thyroglobulin, a protein made only by thyroid tissue, which makes it a useful marker for detecting leftover or returning thyroid tissue after treatment. Because thyroglobulin antibodies can interfere with accurate readings, some versions of this test also check for those antibodies to make sure your result is reliable.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal range clearly explained next to your value. If your thyroglobulin level is rising over time, retesting on a regular schedule (often every 3-6 months) is a smart next step to track any trend. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and the trends feature lets you see how your levels change across multiple tests. If a result comes back significantly elevated, consider seeking prompt medical care to discuss next steps.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people who have already had thyroid cancer treatment, including surgery or radioactive iodine ablation, and need ongoing monitoring. It's also useful for people with a known goiter who want additional information about their thyroid tissue. People without a history of thyroid cancer typically don't need this specific test.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

If you've completed thyroid cancer treatment and notice a new lump or swelling in your neck, this test can help check whether thyroid tissue has returned. Unexplained fatigue, voice changes, or difficulty swallowing after treatment are also reasons some people request follow-up thyroid testing. Since this test is mainly for monitoring rather than diagnosis, symptoms alone without a treatment history are less relevant here.

How can I naturally support thyroid tissue health?

Eating a balanced diet with adequate iodine, selenium, and zinc supports overall thyroid function, though it won't change thyroglobulin levels after cancer treatment. Managing stress, getting regular sleep, and avoiding smoking can help your body recover and stay healthy during monitoring. Staying consistent with your retesting schedule is one of the most useful things you can do to catch changes early.

What does high thyroglobulin mean?

A higher-than-expected thyroglobulin level after thyroid cancer treatment can suggest that some thyroid tissue — potentially including cancer cells — is still present or has returned. It doesn't automatically mean cancer has come back, since inflammation or incomplete thyroid removal can also raise levels. If your number is elevated, prompt follow-up testing and imaging are recommended to figure out the cause.

What does low thyroglobulin mean?

A low or undetectable thyroglobulin level after thyroid cancer treatment is generally a good sign, suggesting little to no thyroid tissue remains. However, if you have thyroglobulin antibodies, they can falsely lower your result, making it look better than it actually is. That's why antibody testing alongside this test helps confirm the result is accurate.

What causes an inaccurate thyroglobulin result?

Thyroglobulin antibodies are the most common cause of unreliable results, since they can interfere with the lab's ability to measure thyroglobulin accurately, usually making the number look falsely low. Having residual thyroid tissue after an incomplete surgery can also affect your baseline level. This is why your antibody status matters when interpreting your number.

How often should I retest?

Most people monitoring for thyroid cancer recurrence retest every 3-6 months in the first few years after treatment, then less often if levels stay stable and low. Your specific schedule depends on your treatment history and prior results. Using the trends feature in your account can help you and any future testing decisions stay on track.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Thyroglobulin Panel - Thyroid Cancer Follow-Up Test

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Thyroglobulin Panel — Thyroid Cancer Monitoring Test