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Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA

Also known as Smooth Muscle Antibody, Actin Antibody
32403600 10% Off
You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female
Earliest reports in
192 hours
Test Preparation
  1. Overnight fasting is preferred but not mandatory.

Understanding Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA


What is Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA?

The Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test is a blood test that measures the amount of autoantibodies targeting actin, a protein found in smooth muscle cells, especially in the liver. This test helps diagnose autoimmune liver diseases, particularly autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), a chronic inflammatory  liver disease characterized by abnormal immune response against the liver.  

Anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA) are antibodies that target the smooth muscle cells of the liver. They are most commonly associated with autoimmune diseases like autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) but can also be found in conditions such as infectious mononucleosis, rheumatic diseases, and certain cancers. ASMAs are produced when the immune system mistakenly attacks the liver, leading to inflammation and damage, a hallmark of AIH. These autoimmune diseases can result in liver damage, which can lead to symptoms resembling viral hepatitis.

The test may be recommended for individuals presenting with symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, vomiting, joint and abdominal pain, jaundice, dark urine, and pale stools. It is beneficial in diagnosing AIH, especially when liver biopsy or other tests are inconclusive. Additionally, ASMA testing can help distinguish autoimmune hepatitis from other liver diseases, such as viral hepatitis or non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

The Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test measures the level of ASMA antibodies in the blood. The patient’s blood is diluted and tested using a method called indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). This technique is used to detect and measure the level of ASMA in the blood. The results are expressed as a dilution factor. The diluted samples are applied to liver tissue, and if ASMA is present, it will bind to the smooth muscle. This dilution helps determine the concentration (titer) of ASMAs. A high titer suggests more immune activity and active autoimmune hepatitis, while a low titer could indicate less severe autoimmune involvement or other liver conditions such as primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) or liver cirrhosis.

An overnight fasting (8 to 12 hours) is preferred before the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test. However, drinking water is acceptable. Also, it is important to refrain from alcohol consumption the day before the test. Inform the doctor about all the medicines and supplements being taken, as some of them may affect the test results and may need to be adjusted or temporarily discontinued before the test. 

Test result ranges may vary across different laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation. Therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results. Always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results. 

What is Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA used for?

The Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test is done: 

  • To diagnose autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). 
  • To differentiate AIH from other types of liver diseases with similar symptoms.
  • To detect the presence of autoimmune activity targeting smooth muscle cells.
  • To monitor the progression of autoimmune liver diseases over time.
  • To monitor treatment response against AIH. 
  • To help in the diagnosis of other related autoimmune conditions, such as primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). 
  • To investigate unexplained liver dysfunction, especially if liver function tests are abnormal.

What does Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA measure?

The Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test measures the level of anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMA) in the blood. In this test, the patient’s blood is diluted several times, and the test looks for ASMA’s binding to liver tissue. Higher levels often indicate more active autoimmune involvement. This test is useful for diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), detecting other autoimmune liver conditions like primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC), distinguishing AIH from other liver diseases, and monitoring treatment progress.

Frequently Asked Questions about Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA


Q. What is the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test?

The Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test is a diagnostic blood test used to detect and measure the levels of antibodies targeting smooth muscle cells, particularly in the liver. It is primarily used to help diagnose autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and assess autoimmune liver diseases. The test involves serial dilution of the patient's serum to determine the concentration (titer) of ASMA.

Q. Why is the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test important?

The Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test is important because it helps identify autoimmune activity in the liver, which is essential for diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) and distinguishing it from other liver diseases. Measuring the titer also helps monitor the severity of autoimmune activity and the effectiveness of treatments.

Q. When should one get tested for autoimmune hepatitis?

One should consider getting tested for autoimmune hepatitis if experiencing symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, changes in appetite, abdominal pain, joint pain, etc., or if there are unexplained abnormalities in liver function tests (LFT), or if there is a family history of autoimmune diseases, or if diagnosed with other autoimmune conditions.

Q. How is the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe and take blood sample from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test?

No, the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test is generally safe with minimal risks. However, you may feel slight discomfort during blood sample collection, but the chances of serious complications are extremely rare.

Q. What happens if my test result is positive for ASMA?

A positive result for ASMA indicates the presence of autoantibodies targeting smooth muscle cells. While a high titer suggests autoimmune hepatitis or other autoimmune liver conditions, it is important to note that positive ASMA results should be interpreted in conjunction with other tests and clinical symptoms.

Q. Can a negative result rule out autoimmune hepatitis (AIH)?

A negative ASMA result does not rule out autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). Not all patients with AIH will test positive for ASMA. Other tests, such as liver function tests, liver biopsies, and the detection of other autoantibodies, may be needed to confirm the diagnosis.

Q. How are ASMA levels used in the management of autoimmune hepatitis?

ASMA levels aid in diagnosing autoimmune hepatitis, assessing disease severity, and tracking treatment response. Routine testing helps optimize treatment adjustments when necessary.

Q. What are the types of autoimmune hepatitis?

Autoimmune hepatitis is classified into two types: Type 1 is the most prevalent type of the illness, affecting people who already have another autoimmune disease. On the other hand, Type 2 is a less prevalent variant of the condition that primarily affects girls aged 2 to 14 years.

Q. What are the complications associated with untreated autoimmune hepatitis?

Untreated autoimmune hepatitis can result in irreversible scarring of the liver tissue known as cirrhosis. It can also lead to problems such as vein enlargement, liver failure, or cancer.

Q. Can the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test diagnose other autoimmune disorders besides autoimmune hepatitis?

Despite detecting autoimmune hepatitis, the Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test can assist a doctor in determining whether an individual has a liver condition such as primary biliary cirrhosis or primary sclerosing cholangitis. However, it can also indicate chronic hepatitis C infection, infectious mononucleosis, breast or ovarian cancer, or melanoma.

Q. How does Tata 1mg ensure accurate lab test results?

Tata 1mg ensures accurate lab test results through certified laboratories that use advanced technology and adhere to stringent quality control measures. This commitment to high standards guarantees reliable results.
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Anti Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) in Dilution by IFA test price for other cities


Price inKolkataRs. 3240
Price inPuneRs. 3240
Price inMumbaiRs. 3240
Price inBangaloreRs. 3240
Price inThaneRs. 3240
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References

  1. Autoimmune Hepatitis [Internet]. USA: NIDDK; Apr.2023 [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/liver-disease/autoimmune-hepatitis External Link
  2. Autoimmune Hepatitis [Internet]. Rochester, NY: University of Rochester Medical Center; [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?contenttypeid=85&contentid=P00657 External Link
  3. Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmune Hepatitis: Serum Autoantibodies in Clinical Practice. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2022 Oct;63(2):124-137. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9464171/ External Link
  4. Sebode M, Weiler-Normann C, Liwinski T, Schramm C. Autoantibodies in Autoimmune Liver Disease-Clinical and Diagnostic Relevance. Front Immunol. 2018 Mar 27;9:609. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5880919/ External Link
  5. Mercado LA, Gil-Lopez F, Chirila RM, Harnois DM. Autoimmune Hepatitis: A Diagnostic and Therapeutic Overview. Diagnostics (Basel). 2024 Feb 9;14(4):382. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10887775/ External Link
  6. Zamanou A, Tsirogianni A, Terzoglou C, Balafas A, Economidou I, Lymberi P. Anti-smooth muscle antibodies (ASMAs) and anti-cytoskeleton antibodies (ACTAs) in liver diseases: a comparison of classical indirect immunofluorescence with ELISA. J Clin Lab Anal. 2002;16(4):194-201. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6807762/ External Link
  7. Zhang WC, Zhao FR, Chen J, Chen WX. Meta-analysis: diagnostic accuracy of antinuclear antibodies, smooth muscle antibodies and antibodies to a soluble liver antigen/liver pancreas in autoimmune hepatitis. PLoS One. 2014 Mar 20;9(3):e92267. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3961308/ External Link
  8. Muratori P, Muratori L, Agostinelli D, Pappas G, Veronesi L, Granito A, Cassani F, Terlizzi P, Lenzi M, Bianchi FB. Smooth muscle antibodies and type 1 autoimmune hepatitis. Autoimmunity. 2002 Dec;35(8):497-500. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12765475/ External Link
  9. Terziroli Beretta-Piccoli B, Mieli-Vergani G, Vergani D. Autoimmune Hepatitis: Serum Autoantibodies in Clinical Practice. Clin Rev Allergy Immunol. 2022 Oct;63(2):124-137. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9464171/ External Link
  10. Xuan R, Yang A, Murrell DF. Indirect immunofluorescence. DermNet NZ. 2017 Dec. [Accessed 10 Feb. 2025]. Available from: https://dermnetnz.org/topics/indirect-immunofluorescenceExternal Link

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