Anti-smooth muscle antibody
What is Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA)?
The Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) test is used to detect the presence of an unusual antibody, found in the blood, against smooth muscle tissue. The test is used to evaluate immune-mediated conditions that affect the smooth muscles, such as hepatitis or other chronic inflammatory liver diseases. The test is also sometimes used to assist in identifying anti-smooth muscle antibodies in the presence of a positive liver biopsy.
Preparation for ASMA Test
No special preparation is required for the Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody test. The patient should just fast for 8 hours before the test and inform the doctor if they are taking any medications that could affect the test results.
Procedure of ASMA Test
The procedure for the Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody test is relatively straightforward. A blood sample is taken from the patient and sent to the laboratory for analysis. In the laboratory, the sample is incubated with an antibody that specifically binds to smooth muscle tissue. If the smooth muscle tissue is present in the sample, the antibody will bind to it and the sample will turn red. The presence of the antibody is then detected by using a technique called enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Types of Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA)
There are two main types of Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibodies (ASMA). These are:
- Type I or immune ASMA: These antibodies are involved in immune-mediated diseases such as autoimmune hepatitis.
- Type II or nonimmune ASMA: These antibodies are associated with liver diseases such as viral hepatitis.
Risks of Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) Test
The risks of the Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody test are minimal, as it is a simple blood test. There is a small risk of infection from the needle prick and slight discomfort may occur when the blood is drawn. Other than that, the test poses no meaningful risks.
Why is Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) Test Performed?
The Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody test is performed to diagnose and monitor patients with conditions that involve smooth muscle tissue. These include immune-mediated and other chronic inflammatory conditions such as autoimmune hepatitis and viral hepatitis. The test is also sometimes used to assist in identifying anti-smooth muscle antibodies in the presence of a positive liver biopsy.
When is Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) Test Recommended?
The Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody test is recommended for patients who have symptoms such as fatigue, jaundice, or dark urine, suggestive of a liver problem. It is also recommended for patients who have been diagnosed with autoimmune hepatitis, viral hepatitis, or any other chronic liver condition. The test is also recommended for patients who have had a liver biopsy which showed evidence of anti-smooth muscle antibody activity.