What is the Purkinje Cell Antibody (Hu & Yo) test?

The Purkinje Cell Antibody test detects anti-Hu (ANNA-1) and anti-Yo (PCA-1) antibodies, which target components of neurons, particularly Purkinje cells in the cerebellum. These antibodies are associated with paraneoplastic neurological syndromes and autoimmune-mediated nervous system damage.

Anti-Hu antibodies are most commonly linked to small cell lung cancer and can affect both the central and peripheral nervous systems. Anti-Yo antibodies are typically associated with breast and gynaecological cancers and primarily affect cerebellar function.

This test is used to support the diagnosis of immune-mediated neurological disorders and to prompt investigation for an underlying malignancy when appropriate.

Why do I need a test for Purkinje Cell Antibodies?

Paraneoplastic and autoimmune neurological syndromes often present with rapidly progressive or unexplained neurological symptoms. Antibody testing helps identify immune-mediated causes that may precede the diagnosis of an underlying cancer.

Early identification is important because neurological symptoms may progress quickly and early cancer detection can significantly affect outcomes.

You may benefit from this test if you experience:

• Progressive balance or coordination problems

• Unexplained cerebellar ataxia

• Slurred speech or swallowing difficulties

• Sensory neuropathy or nerve pain

• Rapid neurological deterioration

• Suspected autoimmune encephalitis

• Neurological symptoms without clear cause

• Evaluation for paraneoplastic syndromes

Benefits of the Purkinje Cell Antibody (Hu & Yo) test

1. Supports diagnosis of paraneoplastic syndromes
   Identifies immune responses linked to underlying cancer.

2. Detects autoimmune neurological damage
   Helps explain unexplained neurodegeneration.

3. Guides cancer investigation
   Antibodies may appear before malignancy is diagnosed.

4. Assists early neurological diagnosis
   Enables faster specialist referral and management.

5. Differentiates immune from degenerative causes
   Clarifies cause of neurological symptoms.

6. Relevant for cerebellar syndromes
   Particularly useful in unexplained ataxia.

7. Non-invasive neurological screening
   Requires only a blood sample.

8. Supports targeted follow-up testing
   Guides imaging, oncology, and neurology assessment.

Step-by-step – how we offer Purkinje Cell Antibody testing

Clinic-based testing (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic

• Attend your appointment

• Blood sample collected by a qualified clinician or phlebotomist

• Sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis

At-home or hotel testing (+£60)

• A qualified phlebotomist visits your home or hotel

• Blood sample collected in a comfortable, familiar setting

• No clinic visit or travel required

Both services are available UK-wide.

Your Purkinje Cell Antibody results explained

Negative Hu and Yo antibodies

Negative results suggest no detectable paraneoplastic antibodies at the time of testing. This makes Hu- or Yo-associated syndromes less likely, though it does not exclude all autoimmune neurological conditions.

Clinical correlation remains important.

UK reference interpretation:

• Negative: Not detected

Positive anti-Hu antibodies

Positive anti-Hu antibodies are strongly associated with paraneoplastic neurological syndromes, most commonly linked to small cell lung cancer. They may affect multiple parts of the nervous system.

Further oncological and neurological evaluation is usually recommended.

UK reference interpretation:

• Positive: Anti-Hu detected

Positive anti-Yo antibodies

Positive anti-Yo antibodies are most often associated with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration, commonly linked to breast or gynaecological cancers. Symptoms usually involve coordination and balance.

Prompt specialist assessment is advised.

UK reference interpretation:

• Positive: Anti-Yo detected