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Routine Screening For Thyroid Peroxidase Antibodies During Pregnancy: Universal Versus Targeted, Megan M. Gross

All Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Background: There are currently no guidelines for screening for thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPOAb) during pregnancy. Currently, there is some debate as to whether pregnant women should be screened for TPOAb, universally, or using a risk-based approach. In addition, there is conflicting evidence suggesting the implications of positive TPOAb testing during pregnancy and their effect on not only the pregnancy, but also the postpartum period and the fetus. Purpose: To determine whether TPOAb should be screened for during the first trimester of pregnancy; and if so, to determine if a risk-based approach or universal screening method is more appropriate. Results: Twenty-four …