Which autoantibody is most commonly associated with primary biliary cholangitis?

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Multiple Choice

Which autoantibody is most commonly associated with primary biliary cholangitis?

Anti-mitochondrial antibodies are the hallmark serologic finding in primary biliary cholangitis. They target components of the mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, especially PDC-E2, and are positive in about 90–95% of patients. This high prevalence makes AMA the most sensitive and specific serologic marker for diagnosing this disease among autoimmune liver conditions. Other antibodies, like anti-smooth muscle antibodies, p-ANCA, or anti-centromere antibodies, can be seen in other autoimmune disorders or less commonly in PBC, but none are as consistently associated as AMA. In the right clinical context with a cholestatic pattern, AMA positivity strongly supports the diagnosis.

Anti-mitochondrial antibodies are the hallmark serologic finding in primary biliary cholangitis. They target components of the mitochondrial pyruvate dehydrogenase complex, especially PDC-E2, and are positive in about 90–95% of patients. This high prevalence makes AMA the most sensitive and specific serologic marker for diagnosing this disease among autoimmune liver conditions. Other antibodies, like anti-smooth muscle antibodies, p-ANCA, or anti-centromere antibodies, can be seen in other autoimmune disorders or less commonly in PBC, but none are as consistently associated as AMA. In the right clinical context with a cholestatic pattern, AMA positivity strongly supports the diagnosis.

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