ASKASkeletal (Striated) Muscle AntibodySerum

The ASKA skeletal (striated) muscle antibody test is used :

• to check the presence of abnormal antibodies in the serum of the individual, which blocks the receptor site of acetylcholine.
• It is used in suspected cases of Myasthenia gravis having abnormal muscle fatigue and inactivity. It is an important test in the diagnosis of Myasthenia gravis.

The test measures the levels of ASKA antibodies in the serum.

This test requires a blood sample. A tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is then asked to make a fist. This helps in the build-up of blood filling the veins. The skin is disinfected before needle insertion and the blood sample is collected in vacutainer.

• Positive result may indicate presence of abnormal levels of Anti Skeletal/Striated Muscle Antibody (ASKA) in the serum. This may aid the diagnosis of Myasthenia gravis.
• Negative result does not indicate absence of disease. Results should be correlated with the clinical findings.

Test is often done together with Acetylcholine receptor antibody, which is the most sensitive test to detect myasthenia gravis. Minority of patients may not show presence of Acetylcholine receptor antibody bit presence of ASKA antibodies