Pituitary Antibodies
Pituitary Antibody testing is performed by a referral laboratory. This assay is only available to members of Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.
Pituitary antibodies can be seen in approximately 70% of patients with lymphocytic hypophysitis which is a rare inflammatory condition affecting the front portion of the pituitary gland. Lymphocytic hypophysitis is often seen alongside other endocrine and non-endocrine autoimmune diseases.
Pituitary antibodies may be present in 30% of patients with autoimmune hypopituitarism and in some pituitary conditions which are not typically autoimmune in nature, such as empty sella syndrome. They may also be observed in other conditions such as autoimmune thyroid disease, some pituitary tumours, connective tissue diseases, eating disorders and diabetes.
This assay is performed at a referral laboratory (external users requiring serum Pituitary antibody levels are advised to contact the referral laboratory directly):
Department of Immunology
PO Box 894
Sheffield S5 7YT
Specimen requirements
Serum 1ml; plasma is NOT acceptable
Cost
Price on application
Laboratory turnaround time
20 days
Laboratory method
Indirect Immunofluorescence (IIF)
Reference range/units
Normal result = Negative
Associated tests
N/A
Shipping and storage
Internal hospital transport/courier.
Ensure delivery Monday to Friday 07:00 - 17:30.
Further information and contact details
For further information, email immunology.office@nhs.net
Last reviewed:02 August 2022