What Is the Steroid Cell Antibody Test?

The Steroid Cell Antibody test detects antibodies directed against steroid-producing cells in the adrenal glands, ovaries, or testes. These cells are responsible for producing essential hormones such as cortisol, aldosterone, and sex hormones.

The presence of steroid cell antibodies suggests an autoimmune process in which the immune system mistakenly attacks hormone-producing tissue. This test is commonly used in the investigation of autoimmune adrenal disease and certain reproductive or endocrine disorders.

Why Do I Need a Steroid Cell Antibody Test?

This test is most often requested when an autoimmune cause of adrenal or gonadal dysfunction is suspected. Autoimmune damage to steroid-producing cells can lead to hormone deficiencies that may progress gradually and present with non-specific symptoms.

Early detection is important, as autoimmune endocrine conditions can worsen over time and may affect multiple hormone systems. Identifying antibodies helps guide further monitoring, diagnosis, and specialist referral.

Symptoms that may prompt testing include:

• Chronic fatigue or weakness
• Unexplained weight loss
• Low blood pressure or dizziness
• Salt cravings
• Darkening of the skin (hyperpigmentation)
• Irregular menstrual cycles or early ovarian failure
• Reduced libido or fertility issues
• Electrolyte imbalances

The test is particularly valuable when symptoms persist despite normal routine blood tests or when autoimmune disease is already present elsewhere in the body.

Benefits of the Steroid Cell Antibody Test

1. Identifies autoimmune causes of adrenal dysfunction
   Helps detect immune-mediated damage before advanced hormone deficiency develops.
2. Supports investigation of suspected Addison’s disease
   Useful in early or atypical presentations of autoimmune adrenal insufficiency.
3. Aids assessment of ovarian or testicular failure
   Helps identify immune-related causes of reproductive hormone loss.
4. Provides clarity in complex endocrine cases
   Adds diagnostic value when symptoms are unexplained.
5. Supports long-term monitoring
   Useful for tracking autoimmune activity over time.
6. Guides specialist referral decisions
   Helps determine when endocrinology input is required.
7. Complements other autoimmune tests
   Often assessed alongside adrenal and pituitary markers.
8. Processed using UK laboratory standards
   Results aligned with recognised UK reference ranges.

Step-by-Step – How We Offer Steroid Cell Antibody Testing

Clinic appointment (UK-wide)
Choose your nearest UK clinic, attend your appointment, and a clinician will take your blood sample. Results are delivered securely once available.

Home or hotel visit (+£60, UK-wide)
A qualified phlebotomist travels to your home, hotel, or workplace to collect the sample. No travel or waiting rooms are required.

Both services are available across the UK.

Your Results Explained

Low / Negative antibody levels

Negative results indicate that steroid cell antibodies are not detected. This suggests there is no current evidence of autoimmune attack against steroid-producing cells.

A negative result does not completely rule out adrenal or hormonal conditions but makes an autoimmune cause less likely.

Typical UK reference range:
Negative

Normal / Borderline levels

Borderline or equivocal results may indicate very low antibody activity. In some cases, repeat testing or monitoring may be recommended, especially if symptoms persist.

Clinical interpretation depends on symptoms, hormone levels, and other autoimmune markers.

Typical UK reference range:
Negative / borderline (laboratory dependent)

High / Positive antibody levels

Positive steroid cell antibodies suggest an autoimmune process targeting steroid-producing cells. This is commonly associated with autoimmune adrenal insufficiency and may also affect ovarian or testicular function.

A positive result usually requires further endocrine evaluation and hormone testing to assess organ function and disease progression.

Typical UK reference range:
Positive