Adrenal 21-Hydroxylase Autoantibodies (Endocrine Sciences)

Casandra

Casandra Test Code LC03213Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab LabcorpLab Test ID 504805CPT Code 83516

Adrenal 21-Hydroxylase Autoantibodies (Endocrine Sciences)

Clinical Use

Use

Addison's disease (chronic primary adrenal insufficiency) is commonly caused by autoimmune destruction of the adrenal cortex and is characterized by the presence of adrenal cortex autoantibodies in the serum. It can occur sporadically or in combination with other autoimmune endocrine diseases that together comprise Type I or Type II autoimmune polyglandular syndrome. The microsomal autoantigen, steroid 21-hydroxylase enzyme, has been shown to be the primary autoantigen associated with autoimmune Addison's disease. Measurement of 21-hydroxylase autoantibodies aids in diagnosis and management of patients with adrenal insufficiency.

Special Instructions

To ensure accurate and timely testing, separate serum from cells within one hour and transfer it to a plastic transport tube before freezing. To avoid delays when requesting multiple tests on frozen samples, submit separate frozen specimens for each test.

Limitations

This qualitative determination involves testing for autoantibodies specific to 21-hydroxylase in patient serum. While it provides significant diagnostic aid, the test should not be used standalone for defining adrenal insufficiency, as it must be interpreted alongside other clinical and laboratory findings. A negative result does not exclude autoimmune Addison's disease, as the presence of autoantibodies can fluctuate.

Test Details