Antimitochondrial antibodies (AMA) are substances ( antibodies ) that form against mitochondria. The mitochondria are an important part of cells. They are the energy source inside the cells and help the cells work properly.
This article discusses the blood test used to measure the amount of AMA in the blood.
How the Test is Performed
A blood sample is needed. It is most often taken from a vein. The procedure is called venipuncture.
How to Prepare for the Test
Your health care provider may tell you not to eat or drink anything for up to 6 hours before the test (most often overnight).
How the Test will Feel
When the needle is inserted to draw blood, some people feel moderate pain, while others feel only a prick or stinging sensation. Afterward, there may be some throbbing.
Why the Test is Performed
You may need this test if you have signs of liver damage. This test is most often used to diagnose primary biliary diagnosis. সহজ বাংলা: লিভারে দীর্ঘমেয়াদি দাগ/ক্ষতি।" data-rx-term="cirrhosis" data-rx-definition="Cirrhosis means long-term liver scarring and damage. This term describes one part of the medical picture. Its importance depends on the body area involved, severity, duration, associated symptoms, examination findings, medical history, medicines, and relevant tests. A healthcare professional interprets it together with the complete clinical situation rather than using the word alone as a final diagnosis. সহজ বাংলা: লিভারে দীর্ঘমেয়াদি দাগ/ক্ষতি।">cirrhosis (PBC).
The test may also be used to tell the difference between bile system-related diagnosis. সহজ বাংলা: লিভারে দীর্ঘমেয়াদি দাগ/ক্ষতি।" data-rx-term="cirrhosis" data-rx-definition="Cirrhosis means long-term liver scarring and damage. This term describes one part of the medical picture. Its importance depends on the body area involved, severity, duration, associated symptoms, examination findings, medical history, medicines, and relevant tests. A healthcare professional interprets it together with the complete clinical situation rather than using the word alone as a final diagnosis. সহজ বাংলা: লিভারে দীর্ঘমেয়াদি দাগ/ক্ষতি।">cirrhosis and liver problems due to other causes such as blockage, viral hepatitis, or alcoholic cirrhosis.
Normal Results
Normally, there are no antibodies present.
What Abnormal Results Mean
This test is important for diagnosing PBC. Almost all people with the condition will test positive. It is rare that a person without the condition will have a positive result.
Abnormal results may also be found, less often, in people with other kinds of liver disease and some diagnosis. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রতিরোধ ব্যবস্থা নিজের শরীরকেই আক্রমণ করে।" data-rx-term="autoimmune" data-rx-definition="Autoimmune means the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. This term describes one part of the medical picture. Its importance depends on the body area involved, severity, duration, associated symptoms, examination findings, medical history, medicines, and relevant tests. A healthcare professional interprets it together with the complete clinical situation rather than using the word alone as a final diagnosis. সহজ বাংলা: শরীরের প্রতিরোধ ব্যবস্থা নিজের শরীরকেই আক্রমণ করে।">autoimmune diseases.
Risks
Risks for having blood drawn are slight but can include:
- Excessive bleeding
- Fainting or feeling lightheaded
- Hematoma (blood accumulating under the skin)
- fever, pain, swelling, cough, diarrhea, discharge, or unusual tiredness, depending on the site. The cause and severity determine whether supportive care, antimicrobial treatment, drainage, testing, or urgent assessment is appropriate; antibiotics do not treat viral infections. সহজ বাংলা: জীবাণু শরীরে বেড়ে রোগ করা।" data-rx-term="infection" data-rx-definition="Infection means germs such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites are growing in the body. An infection may remain in one area or affect several body systems. Possible features include fever, pain, swelling, cough, diarrhea, discharge, or unusual tiredness, depending on the site. The cause and severity determine whether supportive care, antimicrobial treatment, drainage, testing, or urgent assessment is appropriate; antibiotics do not treat viral infections. সহজ বাংলা: জীবাণু শরীরে বেড়ে রোগ করা।">Infection (a slight risk any time the skin is broken)
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