Adrenal Antibodies Blood Test
The Adrenal Antibodies test measures the antiadrenal antibodies to screen for Addison’s Disease.
Description
This test measures antiadrenal antibodies, commonly known as adrenal antibodies. Antiadrenal antibodies are autoimmune antibodies created when your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your tissues, damaging your adrenal glands.
The adrenal glands above your kidneys produce hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone that help your body react to stress and manage blood pressure and water and salt balance. Addison's Disease happens if the adrenal glands don't make enough of these hormones.
Symptoms of Addison's Disease include:
- Weight loss
- Weakened muscles
- Fatigue
- Low blood pressure
- Patchy or dark skin
This test is recommended for someone experiencing symptoms of Addison's Disease. Early detection of this disease may help to prevent worsening health conditions through early treatment. In addition, a healthcare provider may often order this test to be performed with other blood tests, including Cortisol and ACTH, to help screen for Addison's Disease.