Skip to content

Serum Immunoassay for Anti-Smooth Muscle Antibodies (ASMA) (Qualitative)

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

This test checks for antibodies that may indicate an autoimmune condition affecting the liver or other organs, such as autoimmune hepatitis or other connective tissue diseases.

Quick summary

["Helps diagnose certain autoimmune liver diseases by detecting specific antibodies in your blood."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
63316-4
Short code
U1 snRNP70 Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Synonyms
U1 snRNP70 Ab Ser IA-aCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
ia
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, jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes), liver pain, or if they suspect an autoimmune condition affecting your liver or other organs. It’s also used to monitor certain conditions like autoimmune hepatitis or scleroderma.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your lab requires it. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results.

What the Test Involves

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a healthcare professional. The process is quick and typically causes mild discomfort. The serum portion of your blood is then tested for specific antibodies using an immunoassay method.

What the Results Mean

Positive results suggest the presence of ASMA antibodies, which may signal an autoimmune liver disease or other conditions like scleroderma. Negative results mean no detectable antibodies were found in this test. Results should always be interpreted by your provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: ASMA Antibodies and Autoimmune Conditions

Short name

ASMA Antibody Test (Serum)

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive ASMA antibody test indicate?
A positive ASMA test indicates the presence of antibodies targeting smooth muscle proteins, which can be associated with autoimmune hepatitis, autoimmune pancreatitis, or other connective tissue disorders like scleroderma. These antibodies may cause inflammation in organs like the liver, pancreas, or heart.
Can ASMA antibodies be found in other conditions besides autoimmune diseases?
ASMA antibodies are most commonly linked to autoimmune conditions, but they can sometimes appear in other inflammatory or infectious processes. Your provider will consider your symptoms, lab results, and medical history to determine the cause.
How often should I get this test if I have a history of autoimmune conditions?
If you have a known autoimmune condition like autoimmune hepatitis or scleroderma, your provider may recommend regular monitoring with ASMA antibody tests or other liver function tests to track disease activity and adjust treatment as needed.
  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3

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