INDIVIDUAL TEST 086

Adrenal cortex antibodies

IndicationSuspicion of primary Addison’s disease (idiopathic adrenal cortex insufficiency).MethodIndirect immunofluorescence with sections of adrenal cortex from monkeys. The antibodies are directed against microsomal antigens in adrenal cortex cells.AnswerThe result is given as negative or weak, medium or strong positive after evaluation of the intensity of the immunofluorescence.InterpretationPositive in about 70% of patients with primary adrenal cortex insufficiency (Addisons disease) which is more common in women and associated with other autoimmune diseases, e.g. Hashimoto´s thyroiditis, juvenile diabetes mellitus or pernicious anemia. Analysis of autoantibodies against 21-hydroxylas is to prefer since they are a more sensitive and more specific marker for Addisons disease.