Serum Immunoassay for Anti-Mitochondrial Antibodies (AMA-Serum)

What Is Primary Biliary Cholangitis (PBC)?

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the bile ducts in the liver. Over time, this can cause inflammation, scarring, and damage to the liver. Symptoms may include fatigue, itching, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), and digestive issues like bloating or nausea.

Why Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms of liver disease, such as persistent itching, jaundice, or unexplained fatigue. It’s also used to confirm a diagnosis of PBC or monitor disease activity in patients already diagnosed.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm. The serum (liquid part of blood after clotting) is then tested using an immunoassay method to detect the presence of anti-mitochondrial antibodies. Results are reported as positive or negative, or sometimes with a semi-quantitative measurement of antibody levels.

What Do the Results Mean?

A positive result strongly suggests PBC, though other liver conditions or autoimmune diseases may sometimes yield false positives. A negative result means the test did not detect these antibodies, which may rule out PBC but doesn’t rule out other liver issues entirely.