What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing muscle weakness, drooping eyelids, double vision, or trouble swallowing that comes and goes. These symptoms can point to certain autoimmune conditions where your body mistakenly attacks its own muscle tissue. It's also commonly used to help evaluate unusual symptoms linked to a growth in the thymus gland.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with a clear explanation of what's considered a normal range for this antibody. If your result is positive, the report will explain what that may mean and suggest reasonable next steps, including whether retesting or further evaluation makes sense. You can download a standard lab report anytime from your account, and if you test again in the future, the trends feature lets you compare results side by side over time.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for people noticing unexplained muscle weakness that worsens with activity and improves with rest, especially if it affects the eyes, face, or throat muscles. It's also useful for people who've been told they have a thymus gland abnormality, since this antibody is often linked to that connection. If you have a family history of autoimmune muscle conditions, this can be a helpful screening step too.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, slurred speech, difficulty chewing or swallowing, and muscle weakness that gets worse throughout the day. Weakness in the arms, legs, or neck that improves with rest is another key clue. If these symptoms come and go or worsen with physical activity, this test can help identify an underlying cause.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your lab visit. If your initial result requires a follow-up titer test, that may add a bit of extra time since the lab performs it as a reflex step. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

What is a striated muscle antibody and why does it matter?

A striated muscle antibody is a protein your immune system makes that mistakenly targets healthy muscle tissue. Finding this antibody in your blood can be a signal of certain autoimmune conditions, particularly ones connected to the thymus gland. It matters because catching this early can help explain unusual muscle symptoms and guide what to do next.

What does a positive striated muscle antibody result mean?

A positive result means these antibodies were detected in your blood, which is often associated with autoimmune conditions affecting muscle function, especially when there's also a thymus gland issue. It doesn't automatically mean you have a specific disease, but it's a strong clue that warrants closer attention. Your report will include a reflex titer value showing how much antibody is present, which can help gauge severity.

What can cause a positive striated muscle antibody test?

The most common cause is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks muscle tissue, often linked to abnormalities in the thymus gland such as a thymoma. It can also show up in some people without any thymus issue at all. Certain autoimmune muscle and connective tissue conditions have also been associated with positive results.

How often should I retest?

If your first result comes back positive, your report may suggest a follow-up titer to track how antibody levels change over time. For ongoing symptom monitoring, retesting every few months can help you and any specialists you're working with see whether levels are rising, falling, or holding steady. If your symptoms resolve or change significantly, that's a good time to consider retesting regardless of schedule.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

Start by reading the full explanation in your report so you understand exactly what your titer level means. Keep a simple log of your symptoms — when they happen, how severe they are, and what makes them better or worse — since this information is valuable for follow-up care. If you experience sudden severe weakness, trouble breathing, or difficulty swallowing, seek medical care right away, as these can be signs of a serious flare.

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.

Striated Muscle Antibody Test - Autoimmune Screening

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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