Steroidal Cell Antibodies (Adrenal, Ovarian & Testes)

Department of Immunology

Notes

• Anti adrenal antibodies are associated with autoimmune adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease). The presence of these antibodies can predict the risk of progression to adrenal failure.
• Anti ovarian antibodies are associated with premature ovarian failure and Anti testes antibodies with premature testicular failure.
• Steroid cell antibodies can also be associated with the autoimmune polyglandular syndrome types 1,2 & 3.
• Tests are performed at PRU, Sheffield Northern General Hospital.

Sample Requirements

Clotted blood. (No patient preparation or special handling required)

Adult

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

Paediatric

1ml serum Sample

Time limit for add-on

3 days

Turnaround Times

16 days

Reference Range

Reported as Weak Positive, Positive or Negative for each organ specificity.

A test result should not be considered of diagnostic value in itself but used in conjunction with details of the patient’s symptoms, clinical history and other available data.

Absence of antibody does not rule out an autoimmune endocrinopathy.