Immunoassay for Anti-Mitochondrial Antibodies (Qualitative)
This test checks for antibodies that may indicate primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a rare liver disease that damages bile ducts.
["A positive result may help diagnose or monitor liver conditions linked to these antibodies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40712-2
- Short code
- C immitis Ab Ser Ql IA
- Synonyms
- C immitis Ab Ser Ql IA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like itching, fatigue, or jaundice, or if they suspect liver disease. It’s also used to confirm or rule out primary biliary cholangitis, a condition that affects bile flow in the liver.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test is quick and typically done in a lab setting.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means the test detected antibodies against mitochondrial proteins, which may support a diagnosis of PBC. A negative result means these antibodies were not found, but other tests may still be needed to diagnose liver issues.
Common Symptoms Linked to This Test
Symptoms like itching, fatigue, dark urine, pale stools, or joint pain may prompt this test, as they can be signs of liver problems. PBC often develops slowly, so symptoms may not appear until the disease is more advanced.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Anti-mitochondrial antibodies are highly specific for primary biliary cholangitis. A positive result strongly suggests PBC, guiding treatment decisions such as liver support, medications, or monitoring. However, false positives can occur, so additional testing may be needed for confirmation.
Short name
Anti-Mitochondrial Antibodies (q)
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be done at home?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy