Striated (skeletal) muscle antibody test
Quick answer: This blood test looks for antibodies against striated (skeletal) muscle. Doctors usually order it in people with myasthenia gravis, where a positive result can point to a thymus gland tumour (thymoma).
- SampleBlood
- TakesAbout 5 minutes
- Before the testNo special preparation is usually needed.
How the test is done
- 1You sit and rest your arm
- 2A nurse cleans a vein and inserts a small needle
- 3Blood is drawn into a tube
- 4The lab checks for antibodies to skeletal muscle
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 in someone with myasthenia gravis, especially under about 40, can point to a thymus gland tumour (thymoma). In older people it is often positive without a thymoma.
Who usually has this test
People with myasthenia gravis, and sometimes people being checked for thymoma or immune side effects of cancer medicines.
Risks and aftercare
Press on the cotton for a minute to limit bruising; nothing more is needed.
Names and options
Also called: anti-striated muscle antibody, skeletal muscle antibody, ASKA, StrAb
Listed by the hospital as
- ANTI SKELETAL MUSCLE ANTIBODY (ASKA)
- STRIATED MUSCLE ANTIBODY (STR)
Questions about this test
Does a positive striated muscle antibody mean I have a thymoma?
Not necessarily. It raises the chance, especially in younger people, so doctors usually arrange a chest CT scan of the thymus to check.
Is this test used to diagnose myasthenia gravis?
Not on its own. Acetylcholine receptor and MuSK antibodies are the main tests for myasthenia. Striated muscle antibody adds information about thymoma.
Can the level be followed after thymus surgery?
Some doctors repeat it after thymoma treatment, as a rising level may hint at return. Imaging remains the main follow-up.
Related tests
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.