Diagnostic Performance of an Anti-Actin Autoantibody Binding Enzyme Immunodot Blot in Autoimmune Hepatitis Type 1.

Background: A serologic hallmark of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) type 1 are anti-smooth muscle autoantibodies (ASMA) with specificity for filamentous actin (F-actin; AAA (anti-actin antibodies)), traditionally detected by indirect immunofluorescence (IFT) using rat liver, kidney, and stomach tissue sections as substrates. However, IFT is a subjective method requiring an experienced investigator. Therefore, a more objective technique for the detection of AAA may be a helpful diagnostic tool.