Liver Cytosolic Antigen type -1 (LC -1) antibody, serum Test
Liver Cytosolic Antigen type -1 (LC -1) antibody, serum Test
The Liver Cytosolic Antigen type-1 (LC-1) antibody is a medical test that helps evaluate patients with type 2 autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) by detecting the presence of LC-1 antibodies in the blood.
Autoimmune hepatitis refers to the chronic, progressive, heterogeneous inflammatory liver disease that develops without warning in certain susceptible people, especially in children. The disease can be controlled with immunosuppressive drugs when detected early. However, if left untreated, it can progress to scarring of the liver (cirrhosis), gastrointestinal bleeding, confusion associated with a poorly functioning liver, and even liver failure.
What is the Liver Cytosolic Antigen Type-1 Antibody Test Used For?
Your doctor might request a liver cytosolic antigen type-1 antibody test
To diagnose autoimmune liver diseases, particularly the type 2 AIH
To monitor the disease progression and patient response to therapy
Symptoms of Autoimmune Hepatitis
People with autoimmune hepatitis are not always symptomatic. Symptoms develop when the disease begins to affect liver function. Common symptoms include
Discomfort in the upper belly with an enlarged liver
Extreme tiredness
Pain in the joints
Skin rashes or acne
Jaundice (yellowing of skin and eye)
Nausea and loss of appetite
Loss of menstrual period (Amenorrhea)
Chest pain from fluid buildup
Preparation for Test
No specific preparation is required for the Liver cytosolic antigen Type 1 (LC 1) antibody test. You neither have to fast nor restrict your water intake. However, let your doctor know all the medications and supplements you take that could affect the results.
Interpretation of Test Results
Positive result (Abnormal)
This report suggests the presence of LC-1 antibodies associated with Type 2 autoimmune hepatitis. However, additional laboratory tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis.
Negative result (Normal)
This report suggests that the test did not detect LC-1 antibodies; however, this does not necessarily rule out autoimmune hepatitis.
FAQs
Who should get an LC-1 antibody test done?
This test is usually suggested for those individuals who are suspected to have autoimmune hepatitis, especially Type 2 AIH, and may be used in conjunction with other laboratory tests to establish a diagnosis.
What causes autoimmune hepatitis?
While there is no specific evidence for the cause of autoimmune hepatitis, it is believed that if you have a history of viral hepatitis, measles, Epstein bar virus, or herpes, you are more likely to develop AIH.
What happens if my test results are abnormal?
If your test results are abnormal, it indicates that you may have autoimmune hepatitis or some condition affecting your liver. Your doctor will interpret your results, contextualizing your overall health and other test results.
How often should this test be done?
The frequency of performing this test will depend on your unique condition and doctor's discretion.
Can drugs trigger autoimmune hepatitis?
Yes, taking certain medicines like nitrofurantoin (for urinary infection), minocycline (for acne), and isoniazid (for treating tuberculosis) can induce AIH.
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