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.