High Anti-LKM-1 (liver-kidney microsomal antibody): what it means
A Anti-LKM-1 (liver-kidney microsomal antibody) result above the normal range is considered high. Here is what a raised Anti-LKM-1 (liver-kidney microsomal antibody) can point to, and when it is worth discussing with a doctor.
Reference range: <20 U/mL (negative) is normal; a positive result is the defining autoantibody of type 2 autoimmune hepatitis, a form seen especially in children and young adults
Understand your full resultWhat a high Anti-LKM-1 (liver-kidney microsomal antibody) can mean
- Type 2 autoimmune hepatitis — the defining use; the characteristic autoantibody, especially in children and young adults.
- Read with a raised IgG and the liver enzyme pattern — supporting the diagnosis.
- A subset of chronic hepatitis C — can carry anti-LKM antibodies, so the viral hepatitis status is checked.
- Rarely, drug-induced liver injury — some drug reactions can trigger LKM antibodies.
When to discuss with a doctor
Anti-LKM-1 is a specialist autoantibody test, used when autoimmune liver disease is being considered, particularly in a child or young adult with unexplained raised liver enzymes. A positive result, alongside a raised IgG and a matching liver enzyme pattern, points strongly to type 2 autoimmune hepatitis — important to identify because it is treatable and, untreated, can progress to cirrhosis or present as acute liver failure. Because a subset of hepatitis C can also carry LKM antibodies, viral hepatitis is checked as part of the work-up. The diagnosis is made by a specialist from the full picture, usually with a liver biopsy. Mediora.AI shows anti-LKM-1 alongside the liver enzymes, IgG and other autoantibodies so the pattern is read in context; the diagnosis and treatment belong with your doctor.
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Upload your test - freeMediora.AI is informational - interpretation, not a diagnosis. A single out-of-range value is common and often benign; always discuss decisions with your doctor.