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, kidneys, or pancreas.
["Helps identify possible autoimmune disorders linked to mitochondrial antibodies."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34412-7
- Short code
- Mitochondria M9 Ab Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- Mitochondria M9 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like fatigue, muscle weakness, unexplained liver issues, or signs of autoimmune disease. It’s also used to monitor conditions like autoimmune hepatitis or certain kidney diseases.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test looks for specific proteins in your blood that might be targeted by your immune system.
What the Results Mean
Positive results suggest the presence of mitochondrial antibodies, which could signal an autoimmune condition. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found in this sample, but further testing may still be needed.
Common Conditions Linked to This Test
This test is often used in diagnosing or managing autoimmune diseases like autoimmune hepatitis, chronic active hepatitis, or certain forms of nephritis (kidney inflammation). It may also be part of broader evaluations for unexplained organ dysfunction.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Elevated mitochondrial antibodies are associated with autoimmune liver and kidney diseases. While not all positive results indicate a definitive diagnosis, they prompt further investigation into autoimmune mechanisms. Doctors may combine these results with clinical symptoms, other tests, and patient history for accurate assessment.
Short name
Mitochondrial Antibody Screen
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
How often will I need this test?
Can I eat or drink before 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