Liver Kidney Microsomal (LKM) Antibody in Dilution by IFA near me in North Goa

Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) is a chronic liver disease in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, causing inflammation and damage. There are two main types of AIH: Type 1, which is the most common and can affect people of any age, and Type 2, which primarily affects children and young adults with a higher occurrence in females. LKM antibodies are autoantibodies that target specific liver and kidney cell structures. These antibodies are specific for autoimmune hepatitis type 2 (AIH-2), and their presence in the blood is a specific marker for AIH-2.

The Liver Kidney Microsomal (LKM) Antibody in Dilution by IFA test is recommended if symptoms of liver disease are noticed. These symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), unexplained fatigue, abdominal pain, dark urine, pale stools, along with abnormal liver function (particularly alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST)), are noticed. This test can also be used to monitor the progression of type 2 AIH and the response to treatment.

For this test, a small amount of your blood is mixed with a special solution and tested using a method called indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). If LKM antibodies are present, they will attach to liver or kidney tissue in the test. The results show how much antibody is in your blood. A high level may mean active autoimmune hepatitis, while a lower level could point to a milder issue or other liver conditions like viral or drug-related hepatitis

An overnight fast (8 to 12 hours) is preferred before the Liver Kidney Microsomal (LKM) Antibody in Dilution by IFA test. Inform the doctor about all the medicines and supplements being taken, as some of them may affect the test results and need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test. 

Test result ranges may vary across laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation. Therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results. Always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results.