Jo-1 antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for Jo-1 antibodies, which are linked to inflammatory muscle disease. Doctors usually order it when they suspect polymyositis, dermatomyositis or antisynthetase syndrome, especially with lung involvement.
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1A nurse confirms your name and test
- 2A vein inside your elbow is cleaned
- 3A needle collects a tube of blood
- 4The lab checks your serum for Jo-1 antibodies
What your results can mean
Reading your report
A positive result does not by itself confirm a disease, because some healthy people test positive; your doctor reads it with your symptoms and other tests.
If the result is outside the usual range
A positive result can be seen with polymyositis, dermatomyositis and antisynthetase syndrome, which often involves lung scarring, joint pain and cracked skin on the fingers. A negative result does not rule out myositis.
Who usually has this test
People with muscle weakness, a raised CK muscle enzyme, unexplained lung scarring or a typical rash.
Risks and aftercare
You may notice mild soreness where blood was taken; nothing else is needed.
Names and options
Also called: Jo-1, anti-Jo-1, anti-histidyl tRNA synthetase
Listed by the hospital as
- JO 1 ANTIBODY, SERUM
Questions about this test
What is antisynthetase syndrome?
It is a form of inflammatory muscle disease linked to antibodies such as Jo-1. It often affects the lungs, joints and skin of the hands as well as the muscles.
Why might a lung specialist order a Jo-1 test?
Lung scarring can sometimes be the first sign of antisynthetase syndrome. Finding Jo-1 helps doctors pick the right treatment.
Is Jo-1 the only myositis antibody?
No. There are many myositis antibodies, and Jo-1 is the most common one. Your doctor may order a wider myositis panel if Jo-1 is negative.
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Tamara Hospital & IVF Centre, Rajajinagar
34/3, 10th Cross Road, opp. Vardhaka Sardar Patel School, 1st N Block, 2nd Stage, Rajajinagar, Bengaluru 560010
The hospital is open 24 hours. Call before you come to check the timing for your scan or sample collection.
Get directions ↗IVF Pulse fertility care at Tamara Hospital →
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This page explains each test in general terms so you know what to expect. It is not medical advice: your doctor decides which tests you need and what your results mean. Reference ranges differ between laboratories. Updated 4 November 2026.