Autoimmune hepatitis antibodies (liver antigen) blot test

Autoimmune hepatitis (hepatic antigen) blot test is a combination test that detects specific autoantibodies in the serum to diagnose or confirm autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Here is more information about the four specific markers performed in this test:

• LC-1 (liver cytosol type 1): LC-1 antibodies are autoantibodies commonly found in patients with autoimmune hepatitis. Their presence may be a clue to the diagnosis of AIH.
• Liver/kidney microsomes (LKM-1): LKM-1 antibodies are also associated with autoimmune hepatitis, especially in the case of AIH-2. Detection of LKM-1 antibodies can help diagnose and classify the disease.
• M2 (IgG): M2 antibodies are associated with another liver disease, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC), but they can also be found in rare cases in patients with AIH. Detecting M2 antibodies can help distinguish AIH from PBC.
• SLA/LP: SLA (soluble liver antigen) and LP (liver-pancreas) antibodies are specific autoantibodies associated with autoimmune hepatitis. The detection of these antibodies in the blood can contribute to the diagnosis of AIH.

AIH is a condition in which the body's immune system mistakenly attacks liver cells. The exact cause of AIH is not yet known, but it appears to be a complex mix of genetic, environmental and immune factors. There are several theories about what can cause AIH, including viral infections, genetic predisposition and environmental influences, but the exact trigger has not been clearly established. AIH is not contagious and is not caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

Signs and Symptoms of Autoimmune Hepatitis:
Symptoms of AIH can range from mild to severe and can develop gradually. People with AIH may experience the following symptoms:

• Fatigue: Unexplained fatigue is often an early symptom of AIH.
• Abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain in the upper right corner of the abdomen, where the liver is located.
• Jaundice: This causes a yellow discoloration of the skin and whites of the eyes due to an accumulation of bilirubin in the body, which occurs when the liver is not functioning properly.
• Dark urine: The urine may become darker in color due to elevated bilirubin levels.
• Light stools: Stools may become lighter in color due to decreased bilirubin excretion in the bile.
• Weight loss: Unintended weight loss may occur in some patients.
• Nausea and vomiting: Some people with AIH experience nausea and vomiting.
• Itchy skin: Itching can occur due to accumulation of bile acids in the skin.
• Liver enlargement: The liver may be enlarged and palpable on physical examination.

The result of the test can help doctors determine the appropriate treatment for the condition. It is important to discuss the results and interpretation of this test with a medical professional because AIH is a serious condition that requires specific treatment and follow-up.