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Real members of myPBCteam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Elevated AMA alone is enough for diagnosis

A myPBCteam Member asked a question 💭
Iliamna, AK
June 5
 · 
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A myPBCteam Member

This follow on question is for the MyPBCTeam, recently I tested positive for AMA titter being 1:40 and AMA2 but my GI tells me that since my liver enzymes are normal she wants ro wait and see before she starts any medication. Is this the normal protocol? I am pending to have my Fibroscan and will have my Hidoscan next week…not sure if the protocol is to start medication right away or what. I have med another person who is in a similar situation and his GI doctor is also waiting until his ALT get elevated with biopsy before he gets put on medication and it has been like that for 6 years. Any thoughts from anyone that has had this condition for a while? Would love to hear from experts on hear.

June 10
A myPBCteam Member

And AMA doesn't predict how serious PBC is.

June 9
myPBCteam

Actually, an elevated AMA on its own isn't enough to confirm a PBC diagnosis. Doctors need at least two of the following three criteria to be met:

- ALP levels at least 1.5 times the upper limit of normal
- AMA present at a titer of 1:40 or higher
- A liver biopsy showing damage consistent with PBC

So while a positive AMA Show Full Answer

Actually, an elevated AMA on its own isn't enough to confirm a PBC diagnosis. Doctors need at least two of the following three criteria to be met:

- ALP levels at least 1.5 times the upper limit of normal
- AMA present at a titer of 1:40 or higher
- A liver biopsy showing damage consistent with PBC

So while a positive AMA is a strong clue, it's just one piece of the puzzle. It's also worth knowing that being AMA-positive doesn't automatically mean PBC is present — it can occasionally show up in other situations. That's why doctors look at the full picture, including liver enzyme levels, symptoms, and sometimes imaging or a biopsy, before making a diagnosis.

If there's any uncertainty about a diagnosis, seeing a liver specialist can really help, as they're more experienced in interpreting these results.

June 5

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