Three types are known, Ma1 (Ta), Ma2 and Ma3. These have a similar pattern of distribution on the cerebellum. All three antibodies can coexist with each other and this is reflected by additional symptoms compared to isolated reactivity.
Cerebellum: Ma is located in nucleoli of the molecular and Purkinje neurones. Nucleolar ANA must be eliminated as it produces similar pattern as Ma. This type of distribution can also be seen with non Ma sera of undetermined significance.
Testis: Nucleoli are target antigens for the anti-Ma antibody. Positive testis indicates Ma1 reactivity. Note testis lack Ma2 reactivity. This implies that the above sample contains both Ma1 and Ma2 reactivity.
Clinical conditions: Limbic or brain stem encephalomyelitis
Associated tumours: Testicular, lung