Book AMA Test - Price, Purpose, Procedure, Need, Reports

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Introduction to AMA Test

The anti-mitochondrial antibodies test (AMA) test is crucial to measure the amount of anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) in the blood. The formation of the AMA is linked to primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). It was earlier known as primary biliary cholangitis. In other words, the AMA test is ordered to help diagnose PBC. Your doctor may also order additional tests to help detect PBC and thus differentiate it from other conditions associated with autoimmune-related liver damage. 

Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) are the substances whose main target is mitochondria. These are energy-producing structures within cells. A doctor may suggest the AMA test if he finds you have abnormal results on the liver panel or symptoms of PBC, such as general tiredness, itching, and nausea. 

The AMA test is a simple blood test. If suggested, book an appointment for the AMA test with Redcliffe Labs. The presence of AMA in the blood could indicate an autoimmune disease. So, why wait? Get yourself tested from the comfort of your room at the most competitive rates and accurate reports within 4 days. 

AMA Test Details:

What is the purpose of the test?

The AMA test aims to check for the amount (titer ) of AMA in the blood. Antimitochondrial antibodies are antibodies connected with the PBC. Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) causes inflammation and scarring of the bile ducts inside the liver. It is an auto-immune disorder that worsens liver destruction and bile flow blockage. This condition can lead to liver failure or cause liver cancer. 

The PBC is common among middle-aged women and occurs with other autoimmune diseases, especially Sjögren's syndrome. 

Common symptoms of PBC are: 

• Dry mouth and eyes
• Weight Loss
• A fluid buildup in the abdomen and ankles
• Pain in the upper right abdomen
• Itchy Skin
• Nausea 
• Poor appetite
• Fatigue
• Swelling of the hands and feet
• Jaundice

Other conditions when a doctor prompts for an AMA test are

A doctor may also suggest an AMA test if he finds a patient has: 

1. A family history of autoimmune liver diseases: A doctor may suggest an AMA test if your close family member has been diagnosed with PBC or other autoimmune liver disorders. 

2. Elevated liver enzymes: Elevated liver enzymes, such as ALT (alanine aminotransferase), indicate that the patient is suffering from liver inflammation or damage. 

3. Suspicion of other autoimmune disorders: The test may also be needed in case of other autoimmune disorders such as: 

• Lupus erythematosus (SLE) or scleroderma are commonly found in women of reproductive age and are believed to occur simultaneously. Lupus is a long-lasting disease that can affect the patient’s lungs, heart, kidneys, and brain. On the other hand, scleroderma, or systemic sclerosis, may affect blood vessels, the digestive tract, and internal organs. It may also tighten and harden the skin. 
• Rheumatoid arthritis and thyroiditis are caused by shared autoimmune mechanisms. Both conditions occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells. 
• Graft vs. Host Disease (GVHD) occurs when an allogeneic stem cell or bone marrow transplant occurs, and the donor's immune cells attack the recipient’s issue. However, the test is not directly linked to the AMA test, but the immune system and autoimmunity play key roles in both conditions.

4. Infections: The AMA test is not only performed directly to diagnose infections, but infections can indirectly create the need for the test. Chronic hepatitis, such as hepatitis B or hepatitis C, can cause long-term liver inflammation and damage. Besides, if a post-infection autoimmune response is suspected, an AMA test may be conducted to confirm autoimmune liver involvement. 

5. Alcohol abuse: The AMA test is not typically ordered to diagnose alcohol abuse. However, chronic alcohol consumption can lead to liver damage. 

6. Metabolic conditions: Some relevant metabolic conditions include non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), Wilson’s disease, and hemochromatosis, which are described below: 

• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): This condition causes obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. Such conditions indicate that the patient may have autoimmune involvement. Hence, the test is needed. 
• Wilson’s disease is a rare inherited condition that causes copper accumulation in the liver, brain, and eyes. 
• Hemochromatosis: Too much iron buildup can damage the liver. An AMA test helps diagnose autoimmune liver involvement in patients. 

7. Monitors the effectiveness of treatment: In addition to diagnosing PBC and other autoimmune liver diseases, the AMA test is also used to check the severity of the condition and monitor the effectiveness of treatment. 

What is the procedure for the test?

The procedure for the AMA test is simple. As stated above, a blood test is likely to take less than five minutes. A phlebotomist through Redcliffe Labs will come to your residence at any time. He will carry a home blood sample collection kit to draw blood. The steps related to an AMA blood test are as follows: 

• The expert will look for a suitable vein in your arm to insert the needle and draw blood. 
• Before he does so, he will clean the site with an antiseptic solution and tie a tourniquet belt around the arm. 
• Now, he will insert the needle into the vein to draw blood. You may feel moderate pain. 
• He will remove the band and apply the bandage to the puncture site to prevent infection. 
• The phlebotomist transfers the blood into the vial and labels it afterward. 
• Lastly, he will send the blood sample to the lab for analysis and report generation. 

What are the risks associated with the AMA blood test?

The AMA blood test usually results in the symptoms going away quickly within a few days. However, taking a blood sample with a needle may pose certain risks, such as: 

• Excessive bleeding
• Fainting or feeling lightheaded
• Hematoma (collecting of blood under the skin)
• Infection 
• Slight stinging sensation or pain
• Feeling dizzy

In such conditions, seeking medical attention is advisable to avoid severe complications. 

How can you prepare for the AMA test?

Preparation for the AMA test is quite easy. Consult with your doctor and inform them about medications, supplements, herbs, and vitamins you are taking. Some medicines can interfere with the test results, so not taking them before the test with the permission of your doctor can help improve the accuracy of test results. 

Additionally, other important things to help increase the accuracy of your diagnosis: 

• No fasting is needed: You do not need to fast before the AMA test. However, your healthcare provider may suggest fasting, depending on your current health status.
• No intense exercising: To avoid hormonal imbalance, do not engage in intense exercises such as weightlifting or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on the same day of the test. 
• Take 6-8 hours of sleep: To manage anxiety, it is recommended that you take 6-8 hours of sleep before the test. 

What do the AMA test reports indicate?

The normal range for antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) is < 20 IU/mL. The AMA test reports may indicate: 

• Normal AMA test results mean no antibodies are present in the blood. A negative AMA or AMA-M2 level may also mean that the symptoms are due to other factors, but not PBC. Your healthcare provider may order additional tests to determine the titer. 
• A high AMA or AMA-M2 indicates that the cause of symptoms and liver damage is PBC. Higher titer results that may be caused by: 

1. Hepatitis
2. Syphilis
3. Tuberculosis
4. Heart Disease
5. Other chronic liver diseases 

What if the AMA test reports are positive?

If The antibodies are present in the blood if AMA test reports are positive, this shows a connection with certain autoimmune conditions, which are as follows: 

• Primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) is the most common condition related to positive AMA test results. It is a chronic disease that slowly destroys the bile ducts in the liver, leading to liver damage. 
• Other autoimmune diseases: A positive AMA result can sometimes occur in the case of other autoimmune conditions, though it is rare. 
• Absence of symptoms: The AMA test results can be positive without noticeable symptoms or liver dysfunction. In this condition, a doctor may suggest regular monitoring. 

Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage the condition effectively. 

Who should take the test?

Here is a group of individuals who should consider taking the AMA or AMA-M2 test: 

1. People with an autoimmune disorder such as PBC that affects the liver. Some symptoms include 

• Itching
• Jaundice
• Abdominal pain
• Enlarged liver
• Fatigue

2. People with abnormal liver function: Those with elevated liver enzymes or abnormal liver function tests without a clear diagnosis may be suggested for the AMA test to help identify autoimmune causes.
3. Patients already diagnosed with PBC may be tested periodically to monitor their condition.

If you have concerns about your liver health or autoimmune conditions, seeking medical assistance is crucial for appropriate testing and interpretation of results.

What additional tests are required along with the AMA test?

An antimitochondrial antibodies test (AMA test) helps a healthcare provider confirm a clinical diagnosis of PBC. If you are tested positive for an AMA test, then the AMA test alone is not enough to diagnose the disorder. Hence, the expert may suggest some more tests to confirm that you have PBC. These tests are as follows: 

• Antinuclear antibodies test (ANA test)
• Liver function test
• Liver biopsy
• MRI scan
• Abdominal ultrasound
• Cholesterol blood test

What are the causes of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC)?

PBC is an autoimmune disease that mainly affects the liver. Several factors that contribute to its formation are: 

• Autoimmune response: PBC is an autoimmune disease. In this condition, the bile ducts in the liver are inflamed and slowly destroyed, resulting in inflammation and damage. 
• Family History of autoimmune diseases: Individuals with a family history of autoimmune disease are at a higher risk of developing PBC, so testing is important. Genetic markers such as HLA (human leukocyte antigen) types are associated with the disease. 
• Infections: Bacterial infections and exposure to chemicals such as pesticides and solvents also play a key role in the development of the disease. 
• Hormonal Factors: PBC is more common in middle-aged women. This indicates that hormonal changes are key to the disease’s development. 
• Other autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, or thyroid disorders, increase the risk of developing PBC. 

Book the AMA test from Redcliffe Labs at INR 3100

When it comes to health, avoid drastic consequences. Hence, if your doctor has ordered the AMA test, delay no more and book now with Redcliffe Labs. You can get tested with us at a highly affordable AMA test price. 

Redcliffe Labs provides a doorstep sample collection to bring ease and convenience to you. Express booking slots are also available to get your AMA blood sample picked up within 45 minutes and accurate reports within a specified time. So, why wait? Book an AMA test with us now. 

AMA Test Cost in Different Cities - Redcliffe Labs

Note: We also offer AMA Test PAN India. Please call the number 8988988787 to check the availability of our services in your area.