Screening for antibodies to ANA, AMA, LKM, ASMA

Ama (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)

We remind you that independent interpretation of the results is unacceptable, the information provided below is for reference purposes only.

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), also known as Müllerian-inhibiting substance (MIS), is a hormone produced by the ovarian follicles in females and the Sertoli cells in males. It plays a crucial role in sexual differentiation and fertility.

Functions and Significance of AMH

AMH has several important functions in the body:

• In females, AMH regulates follicle growth and development. It inhibits the recruitment of primordial follicles, thereby controlling the rate at which follicles mature and ovulate.
• In males, AMH is responsible for the regression of the Müllerian ducts during embryonic development, leading to the formation of the male reproductive system.
• AMH levels can provide insights into ovarian reserve and fertility potential in women. Higher levels generally indicate a larger pool of remaining eggs.

Composition and Structure of AMH

AMH is a glycoprotein hormone that belongs to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily. It is composed of two identical subunits, each containing 535 amino acids.

AMH plays a vital role in reproductive health and fertility assessment, making it an important biomarker in both males and females.

Role of AMA (Anti-Mitochondrial Antibodies)

Anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) play a crucial role in the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), an autoimmune liver disease. AMA are highly specific for PBC, and their presence is one of the diagnostic criteria for this condition.

Indications for AMA Testing

AMA testing is typically recommended in the following situations:

• Evaluation of unexplained elevated liver enzymes: If a patient has persistently elevated liver enzymes (such as alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transferase) with no clear underlying cause, AMA testing may be ordered to investigate the possibility of PBC.
• Diagnosis of suspected PBC: In cases where PBC is suspected based on clinical symptoms, such as fatigue, itching, or jaundice, AMA testing is performed as part of the diagnostic workup.
• Screening in high-risk populations: Individuals with certain autoimmune disorders, such as Sjögren's syndrome or systemic lupus erythematosus, have an increased risk of developing PBC. AMA testing may be considered as part of the screening process for these individuals.

Preparation for the Test

The preparation for the AMA test is relatively simple and does not require any special measures. However, there are several recommendations that should be considered:

• Follow your regular diet: In most cases, you can take the AMA test with or without fasting. However, in some situations (e.g., during a comprehensive blood chemistry analysis), you may need to fast for 8-12 hours before the test.
• Avoid strenuous physical activity: It is recommended to avoid intense physical exertion the day before the test as it can affect the results.
• Abstain from alcohol and smoking: It is advisable to refrain from alcohol and smoking for at least 24 hours before the test, as they can influence the test results.
• Stay hydrated: Maintaining proper hydration is essential for facilitating the blood draw process. Dehydration can make it more difficult to draw blood.
• Inform your doctor about medications: Some medications can affect the test results. It is crucial to inform your doctor about any medications you are taking.

The Testing Procedure

The AMA test typically involves drawing blood from a vein in the arm, usually at the inner elbow crease. The procedure is performed by a healthcare professional and takes only a few minutes. After the blood draw, you may experience minor bleeding or bruising at the puncture site, which typically resolves within a few days.

Sources:

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2864616/
https://www.webmd.com/hepatitis/what-is-an-anti-smooth-muscle-antibody-asma-test
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5880919/

IMPORTANT!

It is crucial to remember that the information provided in this section is not intended for self-diagnosis or self-treatment. If you experience any symptoms or a flare-up of a condition, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnostic testing and appropriate treatment. Only a qualified specialist can make an accurate diagnosis and determine the appropriate treatment plan. To ensure the most accurate and consistent evaluation of test results, it is recommended to have them performed at the same laboratory. Different laboratories may use varying methods and units of measurement for similar tests.