Mitochondrial Antibody Profile (Screening)
This blood test checks for antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune condition targeting your mitochondria, which are essential for energy production in your cells.
["This screening helps identify potential mitochondrial-related autoimmune disorders that may affect organs like the liver, heart, or muscles."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17284-1
- Short code
- Mitochondria Ab Ser Ql IF
- Synonyms
- Mitochondria Ab Ser Ql IF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- 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
What This Test Measures
The test detects the presence of antibodies against mitochondrial proteins. These antibodies can be linked to certain autoimmune diseases, such as autoimmune hepatitis or other systemic conditions. The results are qualitative, meaning they indicate whether antibodies are present but not their exact levels.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, liver issues, or unexplained inflammation. It’s often used as part of a broader evaluation for autoimmune diseases or conditions suspected to involve mitochondrial dysfunction.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may fast before the test if instructed, but this is not always required. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as they can sometimes affect test results.
What the Results Mean
A positive result means antibodies were found, which may suggest an autoimmune process targeting mitochondria. A negative result means no detectable antibodies were found, but other tests or investigations may still be needed to diagnose the underlying condition.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results can support a diagnosis of autoimmune diseases like autoimmune hepatitis, mitochondrial cytopathy, or other mitochondrial-related disorders. These conditions can cause organ damage, fatigue, and other symptoms. Further testing, such as confirmatory antibody assays or additional bloodwork, may be needed to refine the diagnosis and guide treatment.
Short name
Mitochondrial Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test diagnose my condition?
Are there any risks or side effects from this test?
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