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Antibodies to the adrenal glands in the blood
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Antibodies to the adrenal glands are directed against the microsomal structures of cells of the adrenal cortex. They belong to IgG, they possess organ-specificity and are more frequent in women. The determination of antibodies in serum is used to establish the pathogenetic mechanisms of the development of primary adrenal atrophy.
Antibodies are detected in 38-60% of patients with idiopathic Addison's disease. Over time, the concentration of antibodies in Addison's disease may change, and they may disappear. Antibodies to adrenal antigens can be detected in 7-18% of patients with tuberculous etiology of Addison's disease and 1% of elderly patients.