Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood (serum)
- Fasting: Not required
- Turn-around: 9–11 business days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Benefits
- Early detection of autoimmune adrenal disorders before severe symptoms develop
- No doctor visit required - order directly online and visit any convenient location
- High accuracy - detects autoantibodies in 80-90% of autoimmune Addison's cases
- Comprehensive screening for those with family history of autoimmune conditions
- Quick results delivered securely online within 9-11 days
- Peace of mind through proactive health monitoring and timely intervention
Who Is This Test For?
- Individuals experiencing unexplained chronic fatigue, weakness, or low blood pressure
- People with family history of Addison's disease or autoimmune disorders
- Those with existing autoimmune conditions (thyroid disease, type 1 diabetes)
- Anyone seeking early screening for adrenal autoimmunity before symptoms worsen
- Patients with unexplained electrolyte imbalances or blood sugar abnormalities
- Health-conscious individuals wanting comprehensive autoimmune risk assessment
How It Works – Just 3 Steps
- Order online - Just order your select test and choose your preferred lab location
- Visit lab - Quick blood draw at your convenience, no special preparation required
- Get results - Secure online delivery in 9-11 days
FAQ
What does this test detect? Autoantibodies against 21-hydroxylase enzyme, the primary marker for autoimmune Addison's disease and adrenal insufficiency.
Do I need to fast before this test? No fasting or special preparation is required - just follow standard blood draw protocols.
How accurate is this test? The test detects autoantibodies in 80-90% of newly diagnosed autoimmune Addison's disease cases (Labcorp 2025).
What if my results are positive? Positive results suggest autoimmune adrenal destruction; consult an endocrinologist for further evaluation and hormone testing.
Can I have the disease with negative results? Yes, negative results don't completely rule out adrenal insufficiency, especially if symptoms are longstanding.
Who should consider this test? Anyone with unexplained fatigue, low blood pressure, family history of autoimmune disease, or existing autoimmune conditions.
More Details
What is the purpose of this test?
This test detects autoantibodies targeting the 21-hydroxylase enzyme, which is essential for producing cortisol and aldosterone in your adrenal glands. The presence of these autoantibodies indicates autoimmune destruction of adrenal tissue, leading to adrenal insufficiency. This condition, most commonly known as Addison's disease, affects the body's ability to produce vital stress hormones (Mayo Clinic 2024).
Who would benefit from this test?
This test is particularly valuable for individuals experiencing symptoms of adrenal insufficiency, including unexplained chronic fatigue, muscle weakness, low blood pressure, or skin darkening. People with personal or family history of autoimmune diseases should consider screening, as autoimmune conditions often cluster together. Those with existing thyroid disorders, type 1 diabetes, or other autoimmune conditions have elevated risk (NIH/NCBI 2021).
When should I order this test?
Consider ordering if you experience persistent fatigue, unexplained weight loss, low blood pressure that worsens when standing, salt cravings, or mood changes. The test is also recommended for individuals with family history of Addison's disease or multiple autoimmune conditions. Early testing is crucial because autoantibodies can appear years before obvious symptoms develop (NIH/NCBI 2021).
How do I interpret the results?
Negative
- What it means: No detectable autoantibodies; autoimmune Addison's unlikely
- Typical action: Continue monitoring symptoms; consider other causes if present
Positive
- What it means: Autoantibodies detected; suggests autoimmune adrenal destruction
- Typical action: Consult endocrinologist for hormone testing and diagnosis confirmation
Borderline
- What it means: Results near cutoff value; clinical significance unclear
- Typical action: Consider retesting in 3–6 months; monitor symptoms closely
Over 90% of patients with positive results remain antibody-positive for decades after diagnosis (NIH/NCBI 2021).
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
Pre-test preparation
No special preparation is required for this test. You don't need to fast or stop medications unless specifically instructed by your healthcare provider. Simply schedule your blood draw at a convenient time and follow standard blood collection procedures (Mayo Clinic 2024).
How often should I get tested?
- Initial screening with symptoms: Once, then as clinically indicated
- Family history of Addison's disease: Every 2–3 years or when symptoms develop
- Existing autoimmune conditions: Every 3–5 years or when new symptoms appear
- Positive result with negative hormones: Annual monitoring with endocrinologist guidance
Why early detection matters
Autoimmune Addison's disease accounts for 75-96% of primary adrenal insufficiency cases in developed countries. Early detection through antibody testing allows for preventive monitoring before severe symptoms develop. Untreated adrenal insufficiency can lead to life-threatening adrenal crisis, making early identification crucial for proper management and treatment planning (NIH/NCBI 2021).
Related tests you may consider
Cortisol AM to assess current adrenal function
ACTH (Adrenocorticotropic Hormone) Test- Pairing with cortisol testing helps distinguish primary from secondary adrenal disorders
Anti-GAD Antibodies for type 1 diabetes risk
