Anti Mitochondrial Antibody IFA Titres

The Anti Mitochondrial Antibody IFA Titres is a blood test used to measure the amount of antibodies directed against mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells. This test helps diagnose autoimmune liver diseases, particularly primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), assess its severity, and distinguish it from other liver conditions such as autoimmune hepatitis, primary sclerosing cholangitis, and viral hepatitis.

Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is a chronic autoimmune liver disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks the bile ducts, resulting in bile buildup in the liver. This causes scarring of the liver and can even lead to liver failure. Antimicrobial antibodies (AMAs) are produced as a part of this autoimmune response and are present in up to 95% of PBC patients. The Anti Mitochondrial Antibody IFA Titres test measures the concentration of these AMAs, making it a highly specific marker of PBC.

This test may be recommended if symptoms of liver disease such as fatigue, itching, jaundice, and abnormal liver function tests (particularly alkaline phosphatase) are noticed. It may also be done for individuals with risk factors such as a family history of autoimmune liver diseases or other autoimmune disorders. Additionally, the Anti Mitochondrial Antibody IFA Titres test can be used to monitor the progression of PBC and the response to treatment.

The high titer (higher concentration of antibodies) may indicate the possibility of PBC and helps assess its severity. This is because a smaller percentage of AMAs can also be found in individuals with other liver and autoimmune conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as in some healthy people. Hence, the Anti Mitochondrial Antibody IFA Titres test results should be interpreted in conjunction with other tests  like Antinuclear antibodies (ANA), Anti smooth muscle antibody (ASMA) and clinical findings to confirm a diagnosis.

An overnight fasting (8 to 12 hours) is preferred before the Anti Mitochondrial Antibody IFA Titres. Inform your doctor about all the medicines and supplements you take, as some of them may affect the test results and need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test. 

Test result ranges may vary across laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation; therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.