Myositis Profile Test

Myositis profile test

It is a simple blood test that is used to identify certain specific antibodies (IgG type) formed against skeletal muscles in a patient with autoimmune myositis. Myositis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the muscles. Autoimmune myositis is a broad term which includes various types of autoimmune inflammatory muscle diseases.

It is a simple blood test that is used to identify certain specific antibodies (IgG type) formed against skeletal muscles in a patient with autoimmune myositis. Myositis is a condition characterised by inflammation of the muscles. Autoimmune myositis is a broad term which includes various types of autoimmune inflammatory muscle diseases.

The broad subtypes of myositis are as follows:

• Polymyositis
• Dermatomyositis
• Necrotizing autoimmune myositis
• Overlap myositis
• Inclusion-body myositis

The different subtypes of myositis have variable presentation. The common symptoms include progressive muscle weakness, joint pain and swelling, skin lesions, lung involvement, fatigue, difficulty in breathing and swallowing. They are also associated with high risk of cancer.

Myositis may occur due to different causes such as genetic (hereditary) ,infections ,toxins ,drugs.

Why is myositis profile test prescribed?

• The health care practitioner may prescribe myositis profile blood test in suspected patients with autoimmune myositis to confirm the subtype of myositis by detection of myositis specific auto antibodies(MSA)
• It helps to monitor the progress of disease.
• It helps to know the prognosis of the disease
• It helps to anticipate the complications which may happen in a specific disease
• It helps to provide optimal treatment to the patient

What are the components of myositis profile blood test?

This test includes the following panel of eleven antibodies:

• Mi-2
• Ku
• PM-SCL 100
• PM-SCL 75
• Jo-1
• SRP
• PL-7
• PL-12
• EJ
• OJ
• Ro-52

Procedure and prerequisites

The sample for myositis profile test is taken from blood by inserting a small needle into vein of your arm. A small amount of blood is then collected in test tube or vial. You may feel pain due to needle prick. No preparation is needed before this test.

Results

The result of myositis profile test may be positive, negative, borderline or strongly positive for different antibodies.