Anti-Striated/Skeletal Muscle Antibody (ASKA), IFA
Anti-Striated/Skeletal Muscle Antibody (ASKA), IFA
The anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody (ASKA), IFA test is used to identify autoantibodies targeting the contractile components of striated muscles. This test is particularly useful in detecting such antibodies in patients diagnosed with myasthenia gravis, especially those with thymoma (tumour of thymus gland) in conjunction with myasthenia gravis (MG).
Indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA) is a laboratory technique used to detect the presence of antibodies in a patient's blood serum. Thus, getting this test through IFA can be helpful in the diagnosis of myasthenia gravis (MG)
Symptoms of thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis
Muscle weakness
Drooping eyelid
Double vision
Weak neck muscles
Difficulty walking
Difficulty chewing or swallowing
Difficulty breathing
What is the Anti-Striated/Skeletal Muscle Antibody test used for?
The anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody test is done to:
Diagnose thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis
Distinguish between MG from other conditions that may cause similar symptoms
Test preparation
No special preparation is required for the anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody test
Interpretation of the Test Results
The anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody test results are available as either positive or negative.
Positive test results
A positive test for anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibodies along with symptoms, indicative of myasthenia gravis suggests a likelihood of thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis.
Negative test results
If the anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody test result is negative, it decreases the likelihood of having thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis. However, it is important to note that a negative result does not completely rule out the possibility of MG. Hence, it is advised to consult your healthcare provider to know your results
FAQs
How is the anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody, IFA test performed?
A blood sample is collected from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. Usually, this procedure does not take more than 5 minutes
Are there any risks involved with the anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody, IFA test?
There are no known risks associated with this test. When the needle pricks your arm or hand, you might experience a mild sting or pain. The area could be painful thereafter. Sometimes, bruising, bleeding, and infections may occur at the site of needle insertion
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the anti-striated/skeletal muscle antibody, IFA test?
The anti-striated/skeletal muscle test results are usually available within 3- 10 working days after the sample collection. This duration may vary depending upon the diagnostic clinic
What is the association between thymoma and myasthenia gravis in thymoma-associated myasthenia gravis?
The exact relationship between thymoma and myasthenia gravis is not fully understood. However, it is believed that the thymoma triggers an autoimmune response, producing antibodies that interfere with neuromuscular transmission and cause the symptoms of myasthenia gravis
What steps should someone take if their test results show positive anti-striated muscle antibody?
Consult a healthcare professional in order to undergo further assessment, which may involve additional medical tests and a comprehensive evaluation, to determine the most effective course of treatment
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