Mitochondrial Antibody Line Blot (Serum)
This test detects specific antibodies against mitochondrial proteins in your blood. It helps identify conditions like autoimmune hepatitis or other liver-related disorders linked to mitochondrial dysfunction.
["This test may help diagnose certain autoimmune liver diseases by checking for unusual proteins in your bloodstream."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 82928-3
- Short code
- Mitochondria M2 IgG Ser Ql Line blot
- Synonyms
- Mitochondria M2 IgG Ser Ql Line blot
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- line-blot
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 mitochondrial antibody line blot identifies antibodies that target proteins found in mitochondria—the tiny structures within cells that produce energy. Different lines on the blot represent various mitochondrial antigens. If your body produces these antibodies, it may signal an autoimmune response targeting your liver or other organs.
Why It’s Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), or unexplained liver enzyme abnormalities. It’s also used in cases where other tests for autoimmune liver diseases (like ANA or SMA) are inconclusive.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before drawing blood. Wear a comfortable shirt for easy access to your arm.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a needle into your arm to draw a small amount of blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s usually over quickly. The process takes about 5 minutes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Positive results for mitochondrial antibodies can support a diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, or other mitochondrial disorders. These conditions may cause inflammation in the liver, leading to symptoms like abdominal pain, weakness, or liver damage. Early detection can help guide treatment to manage symptoms and prevent long-term liver damage.
Short name
Mitochondrial Antibody Line Blot
Frequently asked questions
How long will I need to wait for results?
What does a positive result mean?
Can lifestyle changes help if I have mitochondrial antibodies?
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