What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing muscle weakness, numbness, tingling, or other nerve-related symptoms that could point to a motor neuron disorder or peripheral neuropathy. It helps identify whether your immune system is producing antibodies that may be attacking nerve tissue and contributing to these problems. This is often used as part of a broader workup when nerve or muscle symptoms don't have an obvious cause.

What's included in this test?

This test measures a specific antibody (IgM) directed against a nerve-related molecule called asialo-GM-1 ganglioside. Checking for this antibody matters because elevated levels are associated with certain autoimmune conditions that affect nerves and muscles, helping narrow down the cause of unexplained weakness or numbness.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will appear in your account with an explanation of what a normal versus abnormal antibody level means for this test. If your result is positive, next steps typically involve further nerve-focused testing and paying close attention to any changes in muscle strength or sensation, while a negative result may mean looking at other causes for your symptoms. You can download a standard lab report directly from your account at any time. If you test again in the future, the trends feature lets you track how your antibody levels change over time.

How can I naturally support nerve health?

While antibody levels themselves aren't controlled by lifestyle, supporting your nervous system overall can help you feel better day to day. Eating a balanced diet rich in B vitamins, staying physically active within your comfort level, managing stress, and getting enough sleep all support nerve and muscle function. Avoiding alcohol and smoking, which can worsen nerve irritation, is also a simple, practical step.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically available within about 7 days of your sample being processed at the lab. You'll receive a notification once your results are ready to view in your account. Turnaround can occasionally vary slightly depending on lab processing volume.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for people with ongoing muscle weakness, loss of coordination, numbness, or tingling, especially when these symptoms have lasted for weeks or longer without a clear explanation. It's also useful for those already being evaluated for a motor neuron disorder or peripheral neuropathy who want more information about a possible autoimmune cause. If you have a family history of autoimmune or neurological conditions and are noticing new nerve symptoms, this test may also be relevant.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms include progressive muscle weakness (especially in the arms or legs), muscle wasting, tingling or numbness, loss of reflexes, and difficulty with fine motor tasks like buttoning a shirt. Some people also notice cramping, twitching, or unusual fatigue with physical activity. If these symptoms are new, worsening, or unexplained, this test can help clarify what's going on.

What does a positive antibody result mean?

A positive result means your body is producing antibodies that target nerve tissue, which is seen in some autoimmune nerve conditions such as multifocal motor neuropathy. It doesn't diagnose a specific condition on its own but is an important piece of the puzzle alongside your symptoms and other testing. If your result is positive, keep track of any changes in strength or sensation and seek medical care promptly if symptoms progress quickly.

How often should I retest?

Retesting frequency depends on your individual symptoms and whether you're monitoring a known condition or investigating new symptoms. Generally, retesting isn't needed on a routine schedule unless your symptoms change significantly or you want to track how levels shift after starting a new treatment approach. Using the trends feature can help you and your records show a clear picture over time.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your antibody level comes back elevated, it's a good idea to pay close attention to your symptoms and note any changes in muscle strength, coordination, or sensation. Keeping a symptom journal can be helpful for tracking patterns. If you notice rapid weakness, difficulty breathing, or swallowing problems, seek medical care right away, as these can be signs of a more urgent nerve condition.

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.

Asialo-GM-1 Antibody Test - Nerve & Muscle Health

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

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