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Definition

What are 21-hydroxylase antibodies?

The 21-hydroxylase antibodies test is a test that is performed to determine the cause of adrenal insufficiency (also known as Addison's disease). Most of these diseases are caused by autoimmune mechanisms that gradually destroy the adrenal cortex. This disease is indicated by the presence of autoantibodies from the adrenal cortex (21-hydroxylase) in the blood. 21-hydroxylase in the blood can mix with other autoimmune endocrine diseases.

When should I undergo 21-hydroxylase antibodies?

This test is done to:

• diagnosing adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease / endocrine disorder)
• diagnose risk factors for the development of this disease at a later date

Precautions & warnings

What should I know before undergoing 21-hydroxylase antibodies?

For a diagnosis of adrenal insufficiency, the doctor must combine the physical examination with other tests, in addition to the 21-hydroxylase antibodies test. All these tests are necessary because elevated 21-hydroxylase in the blood does not necessarily indicate Addison's disease. Therefore, discuss with your doctor or specialist before and after the test for a more accurate diagnosis.

Observe warnings and precautions before undergoing this treatment. If you have any questions, please consult a doctor for further information and instructions.

Process

What should I do before undergoing 21-hydroxylase antibodies?

Your doctor will explain the whole set of tests. Basically, this test is a blood test. It is recommended that you wear short-sleeved clothing to make the process of taking a blood sample from your hand easier. Before undergoing this test, you do not need to fast.

How do 21-hydroxylase antibodies process?

The medical personnel in charge of drawing your blood will take the following steps:

• wrap an elastic belt around your upper arm to stop blood flow. This makes the blood vessel under the bundle enlarge making it easier to insert the needle into the vessel
• clean the area to be injected with alcohol
• inject a needle into a vein. More than one needle may be required.
• Insert the tube into the syringe to fill it with blood
• untie the knot from your arm when enough blood is drawn
• attaching gauze or cotton to the injection site, after the injection is complete
• apply pressure to the area and then put a bandage on

What should I do after taking 21-hydroxylase antibodies?

Some people may feel pain when the needle is inserted into the skin. But for most people, the pain will fade away when the needle is right in the vein. Generally, the level of pain experienced depends on the nurse's expertise, the condition of the blood vessels, and the person's sensitivity to pain.

After going through the blood draw process, wrap your hands with a bandage. Press the vein lightly to stop the bleeding. After doing the test, you can carry out your activities as usual. If you have any questions regarding the test process, please consult your doctor for further instructions.

Explanation of the Test Results

What do my test results mean?

The normal range for each test may vary depending on the laboratory you choose. Usually, the normal range will be written on the test result paper. Discuss with our doctor or healthcare professional before the test and after receiving the test results for an accurate result.

Normal

Normal range: 21-hydroxylase antibody in blood <1 U / mL

Abnormal

If the test shows high blood 21-hydroxylase antibodies, you may have:

• autoimmune adrenal insufficiency
• multicast autoimmune syndrome

The doctor will explain the results of these tests and combine them with other test results to provide a specific diagnosis. You can ask the doctor for more details.

The normal range for the 21-hydroxylase antibodies test can vary depending on which laboratory you choose. Discuss with your doctor if you have any questions about your test results.