Mitochondrial Antigen Antibody Screening (Serum)
This test checks for antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune condition targeting mitochondria, which are essential energy-producing parts of cells.
["This screening helps identify potential autoimmune disorders affecting organs like the liver, kidneys, or heart."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 63283-6
- Short code
- Mitochondria M2 Ab Ser Ql IA
- Synonyms
- Mitochondria M2 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 healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, unexplained weight loss, muscle weakness, or organ-related issues such as liver or kidney problems. It can also be used as part of a broader evaluation for autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) or mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD).
How the Test Works
Blood is drawn and tested for specific antibodies (mitochondrial antigens) that the immune system mistakenly targets. The method typically involves an immunoassay to detect these antibodies in your serum or plasma sample. This helps determine if your immune system is attacking mitochondria, which can cause inflammation and damage to organs.
Sample Collection and Preparation
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate the serum or plasma, which is sent to the lab for testing. This test does not require fasting or special preparation beyond standard blood draw procedures.
What to Expect After the Test
After your blood is drawn, you may experience mild bruising, soreness, or swelling at the site. Most people recover quickly without complications. Results may take several days to a week to be processed and reported by your healthcare provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Mitochondrial Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
Positive results suggest the presence of mitochondrial antibodies, which may indicate an autoimmune condition affecting organs. Further testing and evaluation by a healthcare provider are needed to determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment. This test is often part of a broader diagnostic workup to guide management of symptoms and underlying conditions.
A positive result means your blood contains antibodies directed against mitochondrial proteins. This can be associated with autoimmune diseases like autoimmune hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, or other organ-specific autoimmune conditions. Your doctor will discuss next steps, which may include additional tests or monitoring to understand the impact on your health.
While this test can help identify a potential autoimmune response targeting mitochondria, it is not definitive for diagnosing autoimmune diseases. It is often used as part of a comprehensive evaluation, including clinical symptoms, physical examination, and other diagnostic tests to narrow down possible conditions.
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