Anti-SLA antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies to soluble liver antigen, which are quite specific for autoimmune hepatitis. Doctors order it when liver tests are abnormal and autoimmune hepatitis is being considered.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You are seated and your arm is supported
- 2The skin over a vein is cleaned
- 3A needle draws blood into a tube
- 4The sample is sent for antibody testing, often with other liver antibodies
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result is read with other liver tests and sometimes a biopsy, so discuss it with your doctor.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result strongly points to autoimmune hepatitis, and it can be found even when other liver antibodies are negative. A negative result does not rule out autoimmune hepatitis, as many people with it do not have this antibody.
Who usually has this test
People with unexplained liver inflammation, especially when other autoimmune liver antibody tests are negative or unclear.
Risks and aftercare
You can carry on with your day straight after the test.
Names and options
Also called: soluble liver antigen antibody, anti SLA/LP
Listed by the hospital as
- ANTI SLA (SOLUBLE LIVER ANTIGEN)
Questions about this test
Why is anti-SLA useful when other antibody tests are negative?
Some people with autoimmune hepatitis have anti-SLA as their only antibody. Testing for it can help find the condition in people whose other results were unclear.
Does a positive anti-SLA mean I need a liver biopsy?
Often a biopsy is still done to confirm autoimmune hepatitis and see how much the liver is affected. Your liver specialist will advise based on your full results.
Is autoimmune hepatitis treatable?
Yes. Most people respond well to medicines that calm the immune system, which can control inflammation and protect the liver over the long term.
Related tests
Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.