Association between Anti-Mitochondrial Antibody Positivity and Anti-Parietal Cell Antibody Positivity 3309

Description The presence of anti-mitochondrial antibodies (AMA) supports the diagnosis of primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) or autoimmune liver diseases, while anti-parietal cell antibodies (APCA) are linked to autoimmune gastritis and pernicious anemia, causing vitamin B12 malabsorption. Previous studies suggest an overlap between AMA and APCA, indicating a potential connection between autoimmune processes affecting the liver and stomach. This retrospective analysis of 100 patients with AMA and/or APCA positivity investigated the prevalence of concurrent positivity, clinical features, and demographics. AMA and APCA antibodies have been investigated by indirect immunofluorescence (IMMCO, NY) methods. Among APCA-positive patients, 50% were also AMA-positive. These patients frequently exhibited symptoms of hepatic and gastric dysfunction, such as fatigue, abdominal pain, and vitamin B12 deficiency. Concurrent positivity was more common in elderly females, suggesting a demographic trend. The findings highlight a potential association between AMA and APCA, possibly due to shared autoimmune mechanisms. Awareness of this overlap can guide clinicians in comprehensive screening and early intervention for patients with dual autoimmune involvement. Further studies are needed to clarify the underlying mechanisms and implications.