ASMA skeletal muscle antibodies

The anti-smooth muscle antibody (ASMA) test is a key element in the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases, especially autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). The presence of these antibodies suggests that the immune system is attacking its own tissues, which can lead to progressive liver damage.

What is the purpose of the test?

• Diagnosis of autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) – ASMA is one of the markers of this condition, often found in patients with type 1 AIH.
• Differentiating the causes of chronic liver diseases – the test helps distinguish autoimmune liver damage from other diseases, such as viral hepatitis or metabolic disorders.
• Monitoring disease progression and treatment effectiveness – ASMA levels may vary depending on the activity of the disease process.

When is it worth performing the test?

• In cases of chronic or unexplained liver problems, especially if other tests (e.g., ALT, AST, bilirubin) indicate abnormalities.
• When autoimmune hepatitis is suspected, particularly in middle-aged women who are at the highest risk of AIH.
• In differential diagnosis with an unclear clinical picture of chronic liver diseases.

What diseases may indicate the need for the test?

• Autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) – chronic liver inflammation leading to fibrosis and cirrhosis.
• Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) – a chronic autoimmune disease leading to bile duct damage.
• Autoimmune connective tissue diseases, e.g., systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), or systemic sclerosis, in which ASMA may also be present.

What symptoms may indicate the need for the test?

• Liver-related symptoms: chronic fatigue, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice), pain in the right upper quadrant, skin itching.
• General symptoms: joint pain, weight loss, weakness, increased susceptibility to infections.
• Advanced liver changes: enlargement of the liver and spleen, ascites, tendency to bruise easily.

Do not ignore chronic liver problems – take the test and take care of your health today!

Details:

Test material: serum

Waiting time for results:

Synevo up to 14 days
Cliniclab up to 10 days