Autoimmune Profile (AIP)

Department of Immunology

Notes

For the diagnosis of autoimmune liver disease and pernicious anaemia. For investigation of SLE, arthralgia, arthritis please see ANA, Antinuclear Antibody.

• Mitochondrial Antibodies are associated with primary biliary cirrhosis. If this pattern is observed a follow up Liver Line Blot will be performed at a reference centre.
• Liver Kidney Microsomal (LKM) antibodies are rare and found in a subgroup of patients with autoimmune hepatitis. If this pattern is observed a follow up Liver Line Blot will be performed at a reference centre.
• Smooth Muscle Antibodies are seen in autoimmune hepatitis but can also be found in normal individuals, particularly if low titre.
• Parietal Cell Antibodies are seen in pernicious anaemia. If identified, please test serum B12 and intrinsic factor antibodies.
• Reticulin Antibodies are of low specificity but can be associated with Coeliac disease. A TTG is more specific and will be added in the event of a reticulin pattern being observed.

Sample Requirements

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only)

Paediatric

1ml Serum sample

Turnaround Times

1 week

Reference Range

Normal result = negative at 1/80 dilution.