What is analysed?

Anti-liver-kidney microsomal type 1 (anti-LKM-1) antibodies are antibodies that specifically target microsomes in the liver and kidney cells. The presence of anti-LKM-1 antibodies may suggest autoimmune hepatitis.

The anti-LKM-1 antibody test is used as an initial screen to detect the presence of anti-LKM-1 antibodies in the blood and assess the need for additional tests.

What does the result mean?

The result indicates the presence or absence of anti-LKM-1 antibodies in the blood.

Why conduct the analysis?

The anti-LKM-1 antibody test is conducted to help diagnose autoimmune hepatitis.

When to conduct the analysis?

The anti-LKM-1 antibody test is conducted when symptoms of autoimmune hepatitis, such as jaundice, fatigue, or abdominal pain are observed.

What sample is required?

A blood sample is used for the analysis of anti-LKM-1 antibodies. The blood is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm.

Is any prior preparation necessary?

Patients should fast for 8-12 hours before the blood sample is taken. In addition, patients should also inform a healthcare professional about any medications being taken, as they could affect results.

How is it performed?

The collected blood sample is sent to a laboratory, where it is analysed using indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) or enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the presence of anti-LKM-1 antibodies in the blood.

What are the normal values?

Titres are used to measure anti-LKM-1 antibodies. A negative test result indicates that no anti-LKM-1 antibodies were detected.

Elevated titres of 1:40-1:640 are seen as a positive anti-LKM-1 antibody test result.

What does having altered values mean?

• Positive result: A positive test result indicates the presence of anti-LKM-1 antibodies, which may suggest autoimmune hepatitis. However, a positive identification alone isn't a sure sign of an autoimmune disease. Further tests and a clinical evaluation are needed.