What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained muscle weakness, fatigue, difficulty climbing stairs or lifting objects, or persistent muscle pain that doesn't improve with rest. It helps identify specific antibodies associated with inflammatory muscle diseases like polymyositis and dermatomyositis, which are autoimmune conditions where your immune system attacks your muscle tissue. Many people use this test when they have ongoing muscle symptoms that haven't been explained by other tests, or when their doctor suspects an autoimmune muscle disorder.

What happens after I get my results?

You'll receive detailed doctor notes in simple language explaining what your antibody results mean for your muscle health and whether specific autoimmune markers were detected. These notes include personalized recommendations like whether you need follow-up with a rheumatologist or neurologist, potential treatment options, and lifestyle modifications to manage symptoms. You'll also get the standard lab report and can track your antibody levels over time using our trends feature, which is especially helpful for monitoring disease activity if you're diagnosed with myositis.

What's included in this test?

This extended panel screens for multiple myositis-specific antibodies that are markers of different types of inflammatory muscle diseases. Each antibody provides clues about which specific autoimmune condition might be present, how severe it may be, and what other organs might be affected. Together, these measurements help doctors distinguish between different forms of myositis and create targeted treatment plans based on your specific antibody profile.

How should I prepare for this test?

This is a simple blood test that typically requires no special preparation. You don't need to fast before the test, and you can take your regular medications unless your doctor specifically instructs otherwise. It's helpful to stay well-hydrated before your blood draw and wear clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up. If you're currently taking immunosuppressive medications, inform your healthcare provider as this may affect interpretation of results.

When will I get my results?

Because this is a specialized antibody panel, results typically take 7-14 business days to process. The extended timeframe is due to the sophisticated testing required to identify these specific autoimmune markers. You'll receive an email notification as soon as your results are ready, and you can access them securely through your online account along with the detailed doctor notes explaining what they mean.

Who should consider getting this test?

This test is important for anyone experiencing progressive muscle weakness, especially in the shoulders, hips, or thighs, or skin rashes combined with muscle symptoms. It's particularly relevant if you have difficulty with everyday activities like getting out of a chair, reaching overhead, or swallowing. People with a family history of autoimmune diseases or those who've had other tests showing elevated muscle enzymes should also consider this panel.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include muscle weakness that gets worse over weeks or months, particularly in your upper arms and thighs. You might notice trouble climbing stairs, lifting groceries, or raising your arms above your head. Other signs include unusual fatigue that doesn't improve with rest, difficulty swallowing, shortness of breath during light activity, or skin changes like a purple-red rash on your eyelids or knuckles. If you experience persistent muscle pain along with these symptoms, this test can help identify the underlying cause.

How can I naturally support my muscle health?

While autoimmune muscle conditions typically require medical treatment, you can support your overall muscle health through gentle, regular movement and physical therapy exercises tailored to your abilities. Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids from fish, colorful vegetables, and antioxidant-rich fruits. Prioritize quality sleep and stress management through meditation or gentle yoga, as stress can trigger autoimmune flares. Always work with your healthcare team before starting any new exercise program if you have muscle inflammation.

What are myositis-specific antibodies and why do they matter?

Myositis-specific antibodies are immune proteins that your body produces when it mistakenly attacks your own muscle tissue. Each type of antibody is associated with different patterns of muscle involvement, disease severity, and response to treatment. Detecting these specific antibodies helps doctors accurately diagnose which type of inflammatory muscle disease you have, predict potential complications, and choose the most effective treatment approach for your specific condition.

What happens if my results are positive for myositis antibodies?

If your test shows positive antibodies, it indicates your immune system is producing markers associated with inflammatory muscle disease. Your doctor will review your results along with your symptoms, physical examination, and possibly additional tests like muscle enzymes or imaging. Treatment typically involves working with a rheumatologist who specializes in autoimmune conditions and may include medications to reduce inflammation and suppress the immune response. Early detection and treatment can help prevent permanent muscle damage and improve your long-term outlook.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Muscle Weakness Test - Autoimmune Antibody Panel

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

[email protected]

Blood Test for Muscle Weakness and Inflammation

Extended Myositis Specific Antibody (MSA) Panel

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

What's this test for?

How should I prepare for this test?

What's included in this test?

Here’s why 1,000,000+ customers chose us for affordable hassle-free private blood testing.

Blood Test for Muscle Weakness and Inflammation

90 day happiness guarantee

Prescription & fees included

Easy to understand results

Fast & convenient

1,000,000+ blood tests later, here's what our customers say