Mitochondrial Antigen Antibody Screening (Serum/Plasma)
This test checks for antibodies against mitochondrial proteins, which may indicate certain autoimmune conditions affecting organs like the liver or kidneys.
["This screening helps identify possible autoimmune diseases linked to mitochondrial antibodies in your blood."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26054-7
- Short code
- Mitochondria M2 Ab Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- Mitochondria M2 Ab Ser Ql
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 directed toward mitochondrial antigens. These antibodies can be found in conditions such as autoimmune hepatitis or other organ-specific autoimmune disorders. The method used may involve immunoassay techniques to identify these markers in your serum or plasma sample.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, liver or kidney issues, or if other tests suggest an autoimmune process involving mitochondrial dysfunction. It’s sometimes used as part of a broader evaluation for unexplained liver disease or other organ-specific autoimmune conditions.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is drawn, and the serum or plasma is separated for testing. This sample is processed and sent to a lab for analysis using specialized immunoassay methods to detect mitochondrial antibodies.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed, but you may be asked to avoid certain medications or foods for 24 hours before testing if instructed by your provider. Always follow your healthcare team’s specific instructions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Mitochondrial Antibody Test
Frequently asked questions
Positive results suggest an autoimmune response targeting mitochondria, which may correlate with conditions like autoimmune hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, or other organ-specific autoimmune diseases. However, not all positive results indicate a definite diagnosis, and further evaluation may be needed.
What does a positive result mean?
Can lifestyle changes affect 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