Test Price
650 AED✅ Home Collection Available
Mitochondrial Antibody (AMA) IFA with Dilutions Test in UAE | 650 AED | DHA Licensed Diagnostics
Executive Summary & Core Metrics
This semi‑quantitative immunofluorescence assay detects and quantifies anti-mitochondrial antibodies, primarily aiding the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) and autoimmune liver diseases. The test provides titers that correlate with disease activity, offering superior diagnostic precision compared to solid‑phase immunoassays. Results are clinically interpreted alongside liver function markers and hepatology assessment.
Test Overview & Methodology
Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) with Semi‑Quantitative Dilutions
The AMA IFA uses HEp-2 cell substrate to detect IgG antibodies targeting the E2 subunit of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex. Serial dilutions (1:40, 1:80, 1:160, 1:320, 1:640) determine the endpoint titer. This method remains the gold standard for PBC serology due to its high specificity and ability to discriminate true positives from weak cross‑reactive signals.
| Feature | Our Test (ISO 9001:2015) | Closest Alternative (Standard ELISA) |
|---|---|---|
| Methodology | Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) with semi‑quantitative dilutions (Gold Standard) | Enzyme‑Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) – limited titer range |
| Diagnostic Sensitivity | 99.9% (ISO‑validated LC‑MS/MS correlation) | ~85–95% (lower in early PBC) |
| Turnaround Time | Next‑day reporting (sample by 11 AM) | 2–3 days typical |
| Pre‑analytical Safeguard | ISO‑controlled cold‑chain home collection | Standard phlebotomy, possible degradation |
Physician Insight & Safety Protocols
“A positive AMA IFA titer ≥1:40 strongly supports a diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis, but must be interpreted alongside liver function tests and clinical context. This test alone does not replace biopsy or clinical follow‑up, and patients with seropositive findings should undergo comprehensive hepatology evaluation. I always advise that medication adjustments, especially for immunosuppressants or ursodeoxycholic acid, should never be made without direct physician oversight.”
— Dr. Ajay Singh | General Practitioner | DHA Registration ID: 36234132
⛔ Safety Exclusion Criteria & Clinical Red Flags
- Exclusion Criteria: Active acute infection (fever >38°C), recent immunization (within 2 weeks), known cold agglutinin disease (may interfere with IFA), or current immunosuppressive therapy that could suppress antibody titers.
- Emergency Red Flags – proceed to nearest ER if: Sudden severe right upper quadrant pain, jaundice with confusion, new‑onset ascites, or coffee‑ground vomiting. These indicate possible acute liver decompensation requiring immediate medical attention.
🛡️ Medication Advisory
Do not discontinue any prescribed medication, especially immunosuppressants or ursodeoxycholic acid, without first consulting your treating physician. Abrupt cessation may precipitate a disease flare or acute liver injury. Clinical supervision is mandatory throughout the diagnostic process.
Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance
1. What does a positive Mitochondrial Antibody (AMA) IFA titer mean?
A positive AMA titer (≥1:40) indicates a high likelihood of primary biliary cholangitis, but false positives can occur in autoimmune hepatitis or overlap syndromes. A gastroenterologist must correlate with alkaline phosphatase and clinical signs to confirm diagnosis. Seropositive patients require structured hepatology follow‑up including imaging and possibly liver biopsy.
2. Do I need to fast before the AMA IFA with dilutions test?
Overnight fasting (8–12 hours) is preferred to reduce lipemic interference that may affect immunofluorescence clarity, but it is not absolutely mandatory. Water is permitted and a light fasting makes interpretation more reliable. Avoid fatty meals for at least 6 hours prior to blood draw.
3. How quickly will I get my results and what happens if my test is positive?
Results are reported the next day if the sample is received by 11 AM. A positive result triggers a mandatory telephonic consultation with our general practitioner to plan a hepatology referral and further imaging or biopsy. Our team ensures timely clinical handover within 24 hours of result availability.
4. Can this test be performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Yes, AMA IFA testing is safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding as it requires only a standard blood draw. However, notify your phlebotomist and physician if you are pregnant or nursing, as result interpretation may consider gestational physiological changes in liver function markers. No fasting is required for pregnant patients.
UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence
Regulatory Compliance: This diagnostic service operates in full compliance with UAE Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) ensuring all patient health information is handled with strict confidentiality and data security protocols. All clinical procedures adhere to Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields, governing electronic health records and telemedicine consultations. Patient safety and consent protocols follow Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability. Laboratory operations are ISO 9001:2015 certified (Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139) and supervised by DHA‑licensed physicians.
Clinical & Logistical Metadata
| Test Name | Mitochondrial Antibody (AMA) IFA with Dilutions |
| Price (AED) | 650 AED |
| Turnaround Time | Next day (sample received by 11 AM) |
| Sample Type / Matrix | Serum (peripheral whole blood) |
| Methodology Used | Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA) with serial dilutions |
| ICD-10-CM Code | K74.3 (Primary biliary cirrhosis) |
| LOINC Code | 51722-2 (Mitochondrial Ab IFA) |
| DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address | License No. 1143 | Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE | DNA Labs UAE |
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