Description
Sera from patients with idiopathic hypoparathyroidism (IHP) may contain antibodies to antigens of parathyroid cells. Such antibodies have been detected by indirect IF on sections of monkey parathyroid. They are not directed against parathyroid hormone, but against cytoplasmic antigens of parathyroid cells. Many of these patients have autoimmune polyendocrinopathies with antibodies to adrenal cortex and ovary membranes.
Indication
Investigation of Autoimmune hypoparathyroidism.
Interpretation
Antibodies to parathyroid cells have been found in the serum of approximately 38% of patients with IHP, 26% of patients with idiopathic Addison’s disease, 12% of patients with chronic thyroiditis, and 6% of controls. Since approximately 60% of patients with IHP do not have demonstrable parathyroid antibodies, a negative test obviously does not exclude IHP. On the other hand, a positive test, while indicating IHP, is not necessarily diagnostic, in that the patient might have adrenal insufficiency or thyroiditis, or a combination of these disorders.
Sample
Serum Separator Tube (SST)
Assay details
Indirect immunfluorescence monkey issue.
Restrictions
Referred test
Reference range
Negative/positive
Assay range notes
Positive results are expressed from +/- equivocal result to +++ very strong fluorescence, very high level of antibody.
Turnaround time
28 days
Analysing laboratory
Sheffield PRU