Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD) is a group of genetic disorders causing progressive weakness and wasting of muscles around the hips and shoulders. It is caused by mutations in genes responsible for producing proteins that maintain muscle structure and function. The MuSK and LRP4 Antibodies Panel is the most important test for assessing potential autoimmune components that may contribute to muscle weakness in LGMD.
90-day money-back guarantee
Lab order in minutes
Save a trip to the doctor
Low prices since 2005
Labs within 2 miles
Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy is caused by mutations in genes that produce proteins essential for maintaining muscle structure and function. These genetic mutations affect proteins in the muscle membrane and surrounding tissues, leading to progressive muscle breakdown. Over time, the muscles around your hips and shoulders gradually weaken and waste away, making it harder to lift your arms, climb stairs, or get up from a chair. The condition can be inherited in either an autosomal dominant or autosomal recessive pattern, meaning it can be passed down from one or both parents.
The MuSK and LRP4 Antibodies Panel is the most important blood test for Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy because it detects antibodies that may be associated with muscle weakness conditions and helps assess potential autoimmune components contributing to symptoms. While LGMD is primarily a genetic condition diagnosed through genetic testing and muscle biopsies, this antibody panel provides valuable information about autoimmune factors that might be affecting your muscles. The test specifically looks for LRP4 antibodies, which research suggests may be linked to LGMD, though this connection is still being studied. This blood test serves as an important piece of the diagnostic puzzle alongside clinical evaluation, family history, and other specialized tests.
You should get tested if you notice progressive weakness in your shoulders or hips, difficulty lifting your arms above your head, trouble climbing stairs or getting up from chairs, frequent falls, or a waddling walking pattern. Testing is especially important if you have a family history of muscular dystrophy or if your symptoms are worsening over time. Early testing helps your healthcare provider develop a comprehensive care plan and rule out other conditions that might be causing your muscle weakness. The sooner you identify potential autoimmune components, the better your doctor can tailor treatment to support your muscle health.
Save a trip to the doctor, go directly to the lab
Instant orders, results often overnight*
Results explained in simple language
Reviewed by US licensed doctors
Fast & confidential, we never sell or share your data
No insurance needed, transparent pricing
What this means
Your anti-MuSK antibody test came back negative, meaning no antibodies against the MuSK protein were detected in your blood. This is the normal and healthy result. If you're experiencing muscle weakness symptoms, your doctor may consider testing for other types of Myasthenia Gravis antibodies or exploring alternative diagnoses.
Recommended actions
Discuss your muscle weakness symptoms with a neurologist for comprehensive evaluation
Consider testing for other MG-related antibodies like acetylcholine receptor antibodies
Keep a symptom diary tracking when weakness occurs and what makes it better or worse
Maintain good sleep habits and avoid overexertion while seeking diagnosis
Not overhyped or overpriced. Just comprehensive blood testing made simple and for everyone.
3303 reviews
Sample results
Your 24/7 Personal Lab Guide
Quick questions:
