Skeletal Muscle Antibodies

Immunology

---

Description

Skeletal muscle antibodies can be seen in patients with MG, particularly in those with thymoma [1]. They may predict an unsatisfactory outcome after thymectomy and if negative can exclude thymoma [1]. A striational pattern (ladder effect along the fibrils) is seen on both cardiac and skeletal muscle but sometimes seen more prominently in skeletal muscle than cardiac muscle. There are a variety of antigen targets, particularly the muscle proteins titin and ryanodine receptor [1].

---

Indications

Myaesthenia Gravis (MG), Thymoma.

---

Sample Type

2mL Serum (Gel 5mL Yellow tube). Requests from outside Sheffield: Transport at ambient temperature via Royal Mail or Courier.

---

Reference Range

Normal result = Negative.

---

Turnaround Time

Within 10 days

---

Testing Frequency

Weekly

---

References

Gilhus NE. Autoimmune myasthenia gravis. Expert Rev Neurother. 2009. 9(3):351-358.
Romi F, et al. Striational antibodies in myasthenia gravis: reactivity and possible clinical significance. Arch Neurol. 2005. 62(3):442-446. [Ref 1]
Vincent A, et al. Antibodies in myasthenia gravis and related disorders. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2003. 998:324-325.

---

See Also

Cardiac muscle

Please note: the above information is subject to change and we endeavour to keep this website up to date wherever necessary.