Anti-mitochondrial antibodies

Anti-mitochondrial antibodies
[[File:|250px|]]
Synonyms	N/A
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	N/A
Complications	N/A
Onset	N/A
Duration	N/A
Types	N/A
Causes	N/A
Risks	N/A
Diagnosis	N/A
Differential diagnosis	N/A
Prevention	N/A
Treatment	N/A
Medication	N/A
Prognosis	N/A
Frequency	N/A
Deaths	N/A

Anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMAs) are autoantibodies directed against mitochondria, the energy-producing organelles within cells. These antibodies are primarily associated with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), a chronic disease that affects the liver.

Overview

Anti-mitochondrial antibodies are a type of autoantibody that target proteins within the mitochondria. The presence of AMAs is a hallmark of primary biliary cholangitis, an autoimmune disease that leads to the destruction of the small bile ducts within the liver. This can result in cholestasis, or impaired bile flow, and eventually lead to cirrhosis and liver failure if untreated.

Clinical Significance

The detection of AMAs is crucial for the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis. Approximately 90-95% of patients with PBC test positive for these antibodies. The presence of AMAs can be detected through a blood test known as an immunofluorescence assay.

Pathophysiology

The exact mechanism by which AMAs contribute to the pathogenesis of primary biliary cholangitis is not fully understood. However, it is believed that these antibodies target the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDC), an important enzyme complex within the mitochondria. The immune-mediated attack on the PDC leads to the destruction of bile duct epithelial cells, causing the characteristic features of PBC.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laboratory testing, and sometimes liver biopsy. The presence of AMAs is a key diagnostic marker. Other tests may include liver function tests and imaging studies to assess the extent of liver damage.

Treatment

While there is no cure for primary biliary cholangitis, treatment focuses on managing symptoms and slowing disease progression. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) is the first-line treatment and can improve liver function and delay disease progression. In advanced cases, liver transplantation may be necessary.

See Also

• Autoimmune disease
• Primary biliary cholangitis
• Liver function tests

External Links

• [Primary Biliary Cholangitis - Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/primary-biliary-cholangitis/symptoms-causes/syc-20376874)
• [Autoantibodies - Lab Tests Online](https://labtestsonline.org/tests/autoantibodies)