What is the Mitochondrial Antibodies test?

The Mitochondrial Antibodies (AMA) test measures autoantibodies directed against components of mitochondria, the energy-producing structures within cells. These antibodies are most strongly associated with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), an autoimmune condition affecting the bile ducts of the liver.

AMA are not markers of mitochondrial dysfunction itself; instead, they reflect an immune-mediated attack on liver tissue. The test is highly specific for PBC and is a key part of autoimmune liver disease assessment, often requested alongside liver function tests.

Why do I need a Mitochondrial Antibodies test?

Autoimmune liver disease can develop gradually and may be present even when symptoms are mild or non-specific. Testing helps identify immune-related causes of abnormal liver findings.

You may need this test if you:

• Have persistently abnormal liver enzymes

• Experience unexplained fatigue

• Have itching (pruritus) without a clear cause

• Have jaundice or pale stools

• Have a family history of autoimmune liver disease

• Are being investigated for cholestatic liver disease

• Have other autoimmune conditions

The test helps determine whether liver abnormalities are autoimmune in origin.

Benefits of the test

1. Highly specific for autoimmune liver disease
   Strongly associated with primary biliary cholangitis.

2. Supports early diagnosis
   Can detect disease before advanced liver damage.

3. Guides further liver investigation
   Helps direct imaging and specialist referral.

4. Clarifies cause of abnormal liver tests
   Distinguishes autoimmune from metabolic causes.

5. Simple blood-based testing
   Requires only one blood sample.

6. Widely used in hepatology
   Standard autoimmune liver marker.

7. Supports long-term monitoring
   Useful in ongoing disease assessment.

8. Improves diagnostic confidence
   Reduces uncertainty in liver disease work-up.

Step-by-step: How we offer testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• Blood sample taken by a clinician

• Sample sent to the laboratory

• Results issued once analysis is complete

Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)

• Mobile phlebotomist attends your location

• Blood sample taken at home or hotel

• Sample securely transported to the laboratory

Your results explained

Negative AMA

• No mitochondrial antibodies detected

• UK standard: Negative

• Makes primary biliary cholangitis unlikely

Positive AMA

• Mitochondrial antibodies detected

• UK standard: Positive

• Strongly suggests autoimmune liver disease, particularly PBC

Results should be interpreted alongside liver function tests, imaging, and clinical findings.