Adrenal Antibody (Serum) Test – Detection of Autoimmune Adrenalitis
Adrenal Antibody (Serum) Test
Synonyms: Antiadrenal Cortex Antibodies
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Serum
Container: Red top tube
Reference Range
Expected Result: Negative
Clinical Use
This test is used to evaluate for adrenal insufficiency, especially in suspected cases of autoimmune Addison’s disease. It detects antibodies targeting adrenal cortical cells.
Methodology
Indirect Fluorescent Antibody (IFA) Technique
Additional Information
- About 60% of patients with idiopathic Addison’s disease show positive antiadrenal cortex antibodies involving all three adrenal zones.
- In contrast, only 5% to 17% of patients with adrenal damage due to tuberculosis, fungal infection, or metastasis exhibit these antibodies.
- 38% of patients with unclassified adrenal insufficiency cases test positive.
- Antiadrenal antibodies may also be found in:
- Hashimoto’s thyroiditis (7%)
- Idiopathic hypoparathyroidism (28%)
Limitations
The presence of antibodies does not always confirm autoimmune adrenalitis, as they may be absent in some confirmed cases or present in unrelated endocrine disorders.
References
- Bigazzi PE, Burek CL, Rose NR, “Antibodies to Tissue-Specific Endocrine, Gastrointestinal, and Surface-Receptor Antigens,” Manual of Clinical Laboratory Immunology, 4th ed., ASM Press, 1992, pp. 765–774.
- Colvin RB, Bhan AK, McCluskey RT, Diagnostic Immunopathology, Raven Press, 1988, p. 107.
- Jacobs, Demott, Finley, Horvat, Kasten.JR, & Tilzer, “Laboratory Test Handbook,” Lexi-Comp Inc, 1994.
