What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained muscle weakness, especially in your hips and thighs, along with fatigue, dry mouth, or difficulty rising from a chair. These symptoms can point to a rare autoimmune condition called Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS), which is sometimes an early sign of an underlying lung condition. It's also used to help tell apart LEMS from a similar-looking condition called myasthenia gravis.

What's included in this test?

This test measures antibodies against N-type voltage-gated calcium channels, proteins on nerve endings that help release the chemical signals your muscles need to contract. When your immune system mistakenly attacks these channels, it can cause the muscle weakness and fatigue seen in LEMS. Checking this specific antibody helps separate LEMS from other nerve-muscle conditions with similar symptoms.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with the normal reference range explained so you know exactly where your antibody level falls. If your result is positive, the report will explain what that means and note that prompt follow-up care is important since this finding is linked to nerve and muscle symptoms and, in some cases, underlying lung issues. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you retest in the future, the trends feature lets you track changes over time.

How can I naturally support nerve and muscle health?

While antibody levels themselves can't be changed through lifestyle alone, supporting your nerves and muscles with regular gentle movement, adequate rest, and a balanced diet rich in B vitamins and magnesium can help with overall energy and muscle function. Staying well hydrated and avoiding alcohol or smoking also supports nerve health. These steps won't replace medical treatment but can help you feel your best while you sort out next steps.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being collected. You'll get a notification once they're posted to your account, where you can view the details and download your report.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good fit for anyone with unexplained proximal muscle weakness, fatigue that worsens with mild activity, dry mouth, or oculobulbar symptoms like drooping eyelids or double vision. It's also useful if you've already been told you might have myasthenia gravis but your symptoms or other test results don't quite fit, since VGCC antibodies help clarify the diagnosis. People with a personal or family history of lung cancer who develop new neuromuscular symptoms may also want to consider this test.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Look out for weakness in the muscles closest to your body, like your hips, thighs, and shoulders, that tends to improve briefly with activity but comes back with fatigue. Other clues include dry mouth, constipation, impotence, drooping eyelids, or trouble swallowing. If these symptoms are new or getting worse, this test can help identify the cause.

What does a high (positive) antibody result mean?

A positive result means your immune system is producing antibodies against N-type calcium channels, which is associated with LEMS and, in some cases, an underlying lung condition. This finding doesn't confirm cancer on its own, but it's a strong enough signal that timely follow-up imaging and evaluation are recommended. Simple next steps include scheduling further testing quickly and keeping a symptom log to share at your visit.

What causes a positive VGCC antibody result?

A positive result usually happens because the immune system mistakenly targets calcium channel proteins on nerve endings, often triggered by an underlying tumor, most commonly small cell lung cancer. In other cases, it can occur without any detectable cancer, which is called idiopathic LEMS. Either way, a positive result calls for further evaluation to find the root cause.

How often should I retest?

If your result is positive, retesting isn't usually about repeating the same test but about following up with additional evaluation as recommended based on your results. If your result is negative but symptoms continue or worsen, retesting in a few months or alongside other neuromuscular tests can help catch any changes. Tracking your results over time in your account can help you and any future testing decisions stay organized.

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.

VGCC Antibody Test - LEMS & Nerve Weakness Check

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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