Also known as: Muscle specific tyrosine kinase
Muscle specific tyrosine kinase (MUSK) is a surface membrane enzyme that is essential in aggregating Acetylcholine receptor during the development of the neuromuscular junction.
Recent studies have shown that antibodies to Musk are present in 40 - 50 percent of patients with generalized Acetylcholine Receptor seronegative MG.
Anti-Musk antibodies have not been found in patients with purely ocular myasthenia or in those with anti-acetylcholine receptor antibodies.
This test is the Myasthenic Screen by Indirect Immunofluorescence.
Specimen requirements
Serum 1ml; CSF not suitable for testing
Cost
- UK NHS = 30 GBP
- International and Private = 45 GBP
Laboratory turnaround time
14 days
Laboratory method
Indirect Immunofluorescence (IIF)
Reference range/units
Not applicable
Associated tests
Not applicable
Sample stability
2 months at 2-8ºC
Shipping and storage
UK and Ireland
Ambient temperature and first class post. Hays DX users please enquire via email below.
International
Ambient temperature if courier will deliver within 72 hours otherwise consider refrigerated transport. Freezing is not a requirement.
Ensure delivery Monday to Friday 09:00 - 17:30.
Further information and contact details
For further information, email immunologylab.enquiries@ouh.nhs.uk
