What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unusual muscle weakness, especially in your hips, thighs, or shoulders, that gets a little better with activity but comes back with rest. It's also used if you have a history of small-cell lung cancer or are being checked for a related nerve-muscle condition called Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome. Doctors and patients use this blood test to help explain symptoms like difficulty climbing stairs, dry mouth, or drooping eyelids that don't have another clear cause.

What's included in this test?

This test measures a specific antibody in your blood that attacks calcium channels on nerve endings, which disrupts the signal between nerves and muscles. Checking for this antibody helps explain unexplained muscle weakness and can point toward an underlying condition that needs further attention, including certain types of lung cancer.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your online account with a clear explanation of the normal range so you can see exactly where your number falls. If your result is positive, the report will explain what that means and outline sensible next steps, such as follow-up testing or imaging to rule out an underlying cause. You can download a standard lab report anytime from your account for your records, and if you retest in the future, the trends feature lets you track any changes over time.

How can I naturally support nerve and muscle health?

While there's no natural remedy that reverses an autoimmune antibody attack, staying active with gentle, doctor-approved exercise can help maintain muscle strength and function. Eating a balanced diet rich in vitamins B12 and D supports healthy nerve function overall. Getting enough rest and avoiding smoking are also important, especially since this condition is linked to lung health.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days after your blood sample is collected at the lab. This test is a specialized antibody analysis, so it takes a bit longer to process than routine blood work. You'll get a notification as soon as your results are posted to your account.

Who should consider this test?

This test is a good option for people with progressive muscle weakness that doesn't have an obvious cause, particularly weakness in the legs, arms, or eyelids. It's also worth considering if you or someone in your family has a history of small-cell lung cancer, since this antibody is closely tied to that type of tumor. People already diagnosed with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome may also use this test to help confirm the diagnosis.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common signs include muscle weakness that temporarily improves with movement but worsens with rest, difficulty walking or climbing stairs, and a dry mouth that doesn't go away. Some people also notice drooping eyelids, blurred or double vision, or trouble swallowing. If these symptoms show up alongside a lung cancer diagnosis or unexplained weight loss, this test becomes especially relevant.

What does a positive VGCC antibody result mean?

A positive result means your immune system is producing antibodies that interfere with calcium channels needed for normal nerve-to-muscle communication. This is strongly associated with Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome and, in many cases, an underlying small-cell lung cancer. A positive result is a signal to pursue further evaluation, including imaging scans, to look for a possible tumor.

What causes a positive VGCC antibody result?

The most common cause is an autoimmune reaction triggered by a small-cell lung tumor, where the immune system mistakenly attacks calcium channels in nerve endings while targeting cancer cells. In some cases, the condition happens on its own without any detectable cancer, called an idiopathic autoimmune form. Genetics and prior immune system activity may also play a role in who develops these antibodies.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your result comes back positive, it's important to seek further evaluation right away, since this finding is closely linked to an underlying cancer in many cases. Follow-up steps often include imaging scans like a CT scan of the chest to check for lung abnormalities. Don't delay follow-up care if you're also experiencing worsening muscle weakness or breathing difficulty, as these can be signs that need urgent attention.

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 - Muscle Weakness & Nerve 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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