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Serum Immunoassay for Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibodies (ASMA)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures antibodies your immune system produces against smooth muscle proteins, often linked to autoimmune conditions affecting organs like liver, stomach, or heart.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose autoimmune diseases affecting internal organs."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
86739-0
Short code
S suis DNA Ct Spec Qn NAA+probe
Synonyms
S suis DNA Ct Spec Qn NAA+probe
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
probe-amp-tar
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained fatigue, abdominal pain, or liver-related issues (e.g., jaundice, liver enlargement). It’s also used when other tests suggest an autoimmune disorder targeting smooth muscle tissues.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, typically drawn from your arm. The test uses a small amount of serum (liquid part of blood after clotting).

What the Test Measures

The test detects the presence of ASMA antibodies in your serum. These antibodies are markers for autoimmune conditions like autoimmune hepatitis or certain types of autoimmune pancreatitis.

Possible Results and Next Steps

Positive results suggest an autoimmune reaction against smooth muscle proteins. Your provider will discuss next steps, which may include additional tests or treatments tailored to your symptoms and lab findings.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Autoimmune Conditions and Organ Involvement

Short name

ASMA Antibody Test

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive ASMA test mean?
A positive ASMA test indicates your immune system may be attacking smooth muscle cells in your body. This can affect organs like the liver, stomach, or esophagus, leading to inflammation and damage. It’s important for diagnosing conditions like autoimmune hepatitis or other autoimmune disorders that target these tissues.
How is this test different from other autoimmune antibody tests?
Unlike tests for specific antibodies (e.g., ANA for nuclear antibodies), ASMA focuses on proteins found in smooth muscle cells. This helps distinguish conditions affecting muscle tissue from those targeting other cell types.
Can lifestyle changes affect ASMA test results?
No, ASMA antibody levels are not typically influenced by diet, exercise, or other lifestyle factors. However, your overall health and symptoms may change with treatment, which could impact future test results.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy