Antithyroid Microsomal Antibody (AMA) Test

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the AMA Test used for?

The AMA test is used to assess thyroid problems or other autoimmune conditions like primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) in your body. It may be used to confirm the root cause of thyroid problems, including Hashimoto thyroiditis. It may also be conducted to find if an autoimmune condition is damaging the thyroid gland.

Understanding the test results of the Antithyroid Microsomal Antibody (AMA) test.

Your antithyroid microsomal antibody test results will let you know whether you have antibodies in your blood directed against thyroid peroxidase (TPO). The standard range of AMA varies between 0.0-9.0 IU/mL. However, it may slightly change according to the testing laboratory. If the result is negative that means the test is normal.

Why do I need an AMA Test?

You may need an AMA test if you are experiencing the following: 

• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Sudden weight gain or loss 
• Hair loss 
• Anxiety 

Additionally, an AMA test is suggested for those with a history or suspicion of hepatobiliary diseases.

Your doctor may also suggest you take the test to assess the levels of the antithyroid microsomal antibodies.

What happens during an AMA Test?

Your healthcare provider will clean the area with an antiseptic, apply a tourniquet to your arm, and select a vein, typically from the back of your hand or inside your elbow. They will insert a small needle into your vein to collect some blood. 

Next, the blood sample is taken to the lab for tests.

What is the normal range of antithyroid microsomal antibodies?

The normal range of AMAs is 0.0-9.0 IU/mL. A negative AMA result means that there are no antithyroid microsomal antibodies present in your body and indicates the immune system's normal functioning. The normal range may vary among laboratories. High AMA levels might be due to preeclampsia, miscarriage, and premature birth.

How often should you take the AMA test?

The AMA test is not a routine laboratory test. You only need to take the test if and when you report abnormal TSH test results or exhibit any symptoms of high/low levels of thyroid hormones. The need for an AMA test is also implicated in the diagnosis of primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC).

What is a positive AMA test?

A positive test indicates that the person has an autoimmune disease or thyroid disorder, especially if the test values are high. This may happen for a number of reasons, such as: 

• Hashimoto's thyroiditis 
• Autoimmune hemolytic anemia
• Graves' disease
• Systemic lupus erythematosus
• Thyroid cancer

How long does it take to get AMA test results?

Less than one week (ranging from three-ten days) is usually required for the results of the blood test measuring AMA levels to be processed. Once the result is ready, the healthcare personnel will explain the result to you. However, an immediate diagnosis based just on AMA results cannot be expected. Hence, additional tests and procedures might be warranted.

What are the common signs to take an AMA test?

The common signs to take an AMA test include:

• itching,
• fatigue,
• abdominal pain,
• sweating,
• anxiety,
• jaundice,
• hair loss,
• dry eyes or dry mouth,
• fluid buildup around the abdomen, feet, or ankles, and
• sudden weight loss or weight gain.

It is also indicated to confirm thyroid disorders or autoimmune or immune conditions affecting the thyroid.

Are any preparations needed for the AMA test?

The doctor may ask you to fast for around six hours before the test to ensure accurate results. Additionally, you should inform your doctor about any medications or prescriptions that you have been administering. This is to ensure nothing interferes with the test result. Apart from these no other special preparations are required.

For more information or to get the test done, book an appointment at Yashoda Hospital and also get a free second opinion.