Antibody screening against liver/kidney microsomal type 1 (LKM-1) is used in the investigation of patients with liver disease of unknown etiology and patients with autoimmune hepatitis.
Autoimmune liver diseases (eg autoimmune hepatitis and primary biliary cirrhosis) are characterized by the presence of autoantibodies such as antibodies against smooth muscle fibers (ASMA), antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA), and antibodies against liver/kidney microsomal type 1 (anti-LKM-1). The types of autoimmune hepatitis are based on the presence of specific autoantibodies.
Antibodies against LKM-1 serve as a serological marker for type 2 autoimmune hepatitis and are typically present with the concomitant absence of ASMA and antinuclear antibodies (ANA). Patients with type 2 autoimmune hepatitis are usually young women, with very high levels of transaminases and elevated gamma globulins, which respond well to immunosuppressive therapy.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. The correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings, and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
