Synonyms: Anti-mitochondrial antibodies
Related tests: ASA, ANA, AST, ALT, GGT, Bilirubin

Clinical significanceClinical indicationsSample typePreparationNotes

Clinical significance
Anti-mitochondrial antibodies are antibodies directed against an antigen of the inner mitochondrial membrane (the E2 subunit, which includes several enzymes, the most important being pyruvate dehydrogenase). AMA are found in more than 95% of cases of primary biliary cirrhosis, of which they are the typical immunological marker.

Clinical indications
Primary biliary cirrhosis.

Sample type
The patient must have a blood sample taken.


Preparation
You must fast for at least 8 hours; a small amount of water is allowed. You must have been standing or sitting upright for at least 30 minutes.

Notes
High AMA titres are more specific for the diagnosis of biliary cirrhosis. Low titres can also be found in other autoimmune diseases, especially of the liver (autoimmune, viral and alcoholic hepatitis).