Muscle Specific Kinase Antibodies

Immunology

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Description

MuSK antibodies are involved in the pathogenesis of acetylcholine receptor antibody negative myasthenia gravis, this is more common in adults than children. MuSK antibodies have been shown to be present in 35-70% of adult Myasthenia patients that have negative acetylcholine receptor antibodies (ACR antibodies) [1].

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Indications

Myasthenia Gravis in ACR negative patients.

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Sample Type

2mL Serum (Gel 5mL Yellow tube). Samples must be urgently transported to the laboratory. Requests from outside Sheffield: Transport at ambient temperature via Royal Mail or Courier.

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Reference Range

Normal is Negative.

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Turnaround Time

10 days

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Testing Frequency

Weekly

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References

Anlar B, Imaz VY, Saruhan-Direskeneli G. Long remission in muscle specific kinase antibody positive juvenile myasthenia. Paediatric Neurology. 2009. 40(6):455-456. [Ref 1]
Vincent A, Leite MI. Neuromuscular junction autoimmune disease: muscle specific kinase antibodies and treatments for myasthenia gravis. Current Opinions in Neurology. 2005. 18(5):519-525

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See Also

Acetylcholine receptor antibodies

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