Book ASMA Test - Price, Procedure, Purpose, Preparation 2024

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Introduction to Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) Test

The Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) Test is a blood test used to detect autoantibodies, antibodies mistakenly produced by your immune system to attack your body's tissues. The test looks for antibodies targeting smooth muscle cells in organs like the liver, intestines, and blood vessels.

The ASMA test plays a crucial role in diagnosing autoimmune liver diseases like autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). AIH occurs when the immune system attacks the liver, causing inflammation and damage. If you are persistently feeling fatigued, abdominal pain, nausea, loss of appetite, or dark urine-like symptoms, then consult your doctor. Your doctor may recommend the ASMA blood test based on your symptoms and medical history. Book your ASMA antibody test with Redcliffe Labs for free home sample collection. The phlebotomist will come to your place and collect the sample from the comfort of your home. Choose us as your trusted diagnostic partner and get your test reports on time with accurate results. 

Test details in brief

Purpose of the ASMA test

The purpose of the Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) test is to

Diagnosing autoimmune liver diseases

The purpose of the ASMA test is to diagnose autoimmune hepatitis (AIH), a condition where the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy liver cells. The high levels of ASMA in the blood can suggest autoimmune hepatitis (AIH). The test helps diagnose other autoimmune liver diseases like primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC), though different autoantibodies are primarily associated with these conditions.

Understanding the cause of liver damage

When someone experiences symptoms or signs of liver damage, such as fatigue, jaundice, or abdominal pain, the ASMA blood test can help to determine the underlying cause.

Preparation for the ASMA test

The ASMA test does not require any special preparation; however, your healthcare provider will collect the blood sample from your arm to perform the test. 

• No fasting- You can eat and drink normally before the test.
• Medications- Consult your doctor if you take any medications or supplements that might affect your test reports.
• Hydration-  Keep yourself hydrated.

The procedure of the ASMA test

The ASMA test is a routine blood draw. A healthcare professional will take a small blood sample from the vein of your arm. The healthcare provider will clean the arm with an antiseptic solution to prevent infection and tie a tourniquet or band to make the vein more visible. You may feel a brief pinching or stinging sensation as the needle goes in. You may also have some minor discomfort during the blood collection. After the phlebotomist collects enough of your blood, they'll remove the elastic band from your arm. He will remove the needle and place gauze or a piece of cotton on the puncture site to stop the blood flow. The complete procedure will take at least 2-3 minutes.

What does the ASMA test detect?

The ASMA test primarily detects the presence of autoantibodies targeting smooth muscle cells in your blood. These antibodies produced by your immune system mistakenly attack your body's healthy cells. While a positive ASMA test suggests the possibility of an autoimmune disorder, it doesn't confirm any specific disease. It indicates the presence of autoantibodies, suggesting an autoimmune response somewhere in your body. Smooth muscle cells are found in various organs, including the liver. While ASMA positivity can occur in other conditions, its association with liver diseases is particularly strong. Certain ASMA patterns and other antibodies can explain possible liver diseases like AIH, PBC, or PSC. A positive ASMA antibody alone doesn't diagnose any specific liver disease. The test is helpful to detect autoimmune liver diseases and understand the underlying immune response. 

What do the ASMA test reports indicate?

The ASMA test reports will be available within 6 days of reports. However, consult your test reports with your doctor. 

• Negative result- Normal result means no ASMA autoantibodies detected in your blood. The normal range is considered to be dilution less than 1:20.
• Positive Result-  If your ASMA level is higher than the reference range, the report will label it as positive, suggesting the presence of ASMA autoantibodies. The positive ASMA results are greater than or equal to the dilution of 1:40. The positive test means- 
• chronic hepatitis C infection
• infectious mononucleosis
• an autoimmune liver disease
• cancer of the breast or ovaries
• a melanoma
• Autoimmune hepatitis

According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, anyone can have autoimmune hepatitis, but it's women are more prevalent to AIH than men, according to the 

• cirrhosis
• liver cancer
• liver failure
• Require liver transplantation

Consult your healthcare provider to thoroughly understand your test results and appropriate treatment options.

Who should take the ASMA test?

The ASMA blood test is only routinely recommended for some. Whether someone should take the ASMA test depends on several factors, including:

• The people notice symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, abdominal pain, jaundice, nausea, itchy and joint pain. 
• People with a family history of autoimmune liver disease
• People having liver diseases even without symptoms
• High liver enzymes on routine blood tests
• Exposure to certain medications or toxins that can trigger autoimmune reactions

Always consult your doctor if you have any concerns about your liver health or experience any symptoms of liver problems. 

What are the risk factors of ASMA tests?

The ASMA test is a safe and low-risk procedure. However, like any medical test, there are certain potential risks you must- 

• Pain or bruising
• Fainting or lightheadedness
• Excessive bleeding
• Infection
• Phlebitis

What are the common symptoms related to abnormal ASMA levels?

Abnormal ASMA levels can cause various symptoms; here are some common symptoms- 

• Fatigue 
• Stomach ache or discomfort
• Loss of appetite 
• Nausea and vomiting
• Jaundice
• Itchy skin
• tenderness over the liver
• dark urine
• pale-coloured stools
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Fever

ASMA Test price at Redcliffe Labs

The ASMA test price is INR 1900 at Redcliffe Labs. You can book your test on the Redcliffe Lab app or call us. We ensure that we provide you with the best diagnostic services at affordable prices. With us, you don't need to worry about the accuracy and reliability of labs, as our labs are NABL-accredited and ISO-certified. 

In addition, we use advanced cutting-edge technology and equipment to deliver precise test results.

You don't need to visit a lab as we offer a convenient home sample collection at your doorstep.

So, whether you're experiencing symptoms of liver problems, have a family history of autoimmune diseases, or just need to proactively monitor your liver health, choose us for your ASMA test for reliable results.

ASMA Test Price in Different Cities

Why Does the ASMA Test Matter?

The Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibody (ASMA) test helps to detect autoimmune liver diseases. Your doctor may recommend this test to identify the hidden enemies targeting your liver – autoantibodies. The test determines the antibodies that mistakenly attack your body's cells. Early detection is key, as autoimmune liver diseases, if left unchecked, can cause significant damage. So, why should you consider taking the ASMA test? If you experience symptoms like fatigue, jaundice, itchy skin, or abdominal pain, the ASMA test can be pivotal in understanding the underlying cause. A positive result, combined with other tests, can point towards autoimmune liver diseases like AIH, PBC, or PSC, enabling early intervention and treatment. Even without noticeable symptoms, the ASMA test can be valuable if you have a family history of autoimmune diseases or have been exposed to certain medications or toxins. Early detection allows for proactive monitoring and preventive measures to safeguard your liver health. If you have any concerns or your doctor recommends the ASMA test, consider it an investment in your well-being. So, embrace the ASMA test as a powerful tool for understanding and protecting your liver – the silent guardian of your health.