Yo Neuronal Antibody Test

The Yo Neuronal Antibody Test is a specialized diagnostic assay that detects anti-Yo antibodies (also called Purkinje cell cytoplasmic antibody type 1, PCA-1) in blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). These autoantibodies are strongly associated with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration (PCD), a rare neurological disorder often linked to underlying cancers.

 Purpose of the Test

This test helps:

• Diagnose paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration
• Identify underlying malignancies in patients with neurological symptoms
• Differentiate PCD from other causes of cerebellar ataxia
• Monitor neurological autoimmunity in cancer patients.

Signs and Symptoms Suggestive of Yo Antibody-Associated Disease

• Rapidly progressive cerebellar ataxia (weeks to months)
• Dysarthria (slurred speech)
• Nystagmus (involuntary eye movements)
• Vertigo and dizziness
• Limb incoordination
• Often precedes cancer diagnosis by months

When to Get Tested

1. Testing should be considered when:
2. Rapidly progressive cerebellar ataxia develops
3. Unexplained gait disturbance, dysarthria, or nystagmus appears
4. Ovarian/breast cancer is diagnosed with neurological symptoms
5. Other paraneoplastic syndromes are suspected

How the test is performed

• Sample Collection: A blood sample is drawn from the patient and processed to separate the serum.
• Testing Methods:
  • Indirect Immunofluorescence: The serum is applied to tissue sections (often cerebellar tissue) to detect the presence of Yo antibodies. Positive results show specific staining patterns.
  • Immunoblot Testing: This method confirms the presence of Yo antibodies by identifying specific protein bands associated with Purkinje cells.

 Preparation Before the Test

• No fasting required for blood tests
• For CSF analysis:
  • May require 4-6 hours fasting
  • Discontinue anticoagulants if lumbar puncture needed
• Inform physician about all medications
• For blood tests:  Standard venipuncture is required, while for lumbar puncture:
  • Empty bladder beforehand
  • Remain still during procedure

Plan for rest afterward (possible post-LP headache)

 Interpretation of Results

• Positive Result:
  • Strong indication of paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration
  • Should prompt comprehensive cancer screening
  • Titers may correlate with disease activity
• Negative Result:
  • Doesn’t completely rule out PCD
  • Consider other paraneoplastic antibodies

Typical Reference Values

Reference values may vary by laboratory; typically, results are reported as either positive or negative for anti-Yo antibodies.

A positive result indicates the presence of these antibodies, which is often associated with a high risk of underlying cancer.

Turnaround Time

The results for the Yo neuronal antibody test are generally reported within 3 days after the sample is received by the laboratory.

 FAQs

 How specific is the Yo antibody test for cancer?
>95% specificity – nearly all Yo+ patients have an underlying malignancy

What cancers are most associated?
Ovarian (50%), breast (20%), lung (10%), others (20%)

Can the test be a false positive?
Extremely rarea positive result should be taken seriously

 Is there treatment for Yo antibody-associated PCD?
Treatment focuses on:

1. Identifying/treating underlying cancer
2. Immunotherapy (IVIG, steroids, plasma exchange)
3. Symptomatic management

How long does testing take?
Typically 7-14 days as specialized reference lab testing

Order Yo Neuronal Antibody Test in kenya

Please click the ‘Order Test’ button and put the Yo Neuronal Antibody Test in your cart.

You are welcome to visit our laboratory in Kilimani, Nairobi.

This will initiate the process for obtaining your test