Acetylcholine Receptor (AChR) Antibodies, Complete Profile Blood Test

The Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody test is used to diagnose myasthenia gravis (MG); monitor response to treatment of myasthenia gravis.

Quest
LabCorp

Sample Report

Test Code: 086007

Also Known As: Myasthenia Gravis Test; Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody Test; Acetylcholine Receptor Complete Antibody Profile; Myasthenia Gravis Evaluation Complete Profile

Methodology: AChR-binding assay and blocking antibody: radioimmunoassay (RIA); AChR-modulating antibody: cell culture based radioimmunoassay (RIA)

Preparation: No special preparation required. False positives can occur in patients with serum drawn within 48 hours of administration of general anesthesia and muscle relaxants. Antibodies to α-bungarotoxin may sometimes be found in patients treated with snake venom. Recently administered radioisotopes may interfere with the assay in unpredictable ways. Acetylcholine receptor autoantibodies are not typically found in congenital myasthenia gravis.

Test Results: 7-10 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.

Description

The Acetylcholine Receptor (AChR) Antibodies, Complete Profile Blood Test measures the concentration in your blood of a substance called acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibody. Acetylcholine is a chemical that helps to contract muscles. It acts as a messenger between the nerves and the muscles. People with myasthenia gravis (MG) often make an abnormal protein known as acetylcholine receptor antibody. This protein interferes with how acetylcholine functions, which usually leads to muscle weakness in the eye at first. You may have drooping eyelids or double vision. MG is an autoimmune disease because your body produces the protein that attacks the normal workings of acetylcholine.

Most people with the disorder have a normal lifespan, but to control their symptoms, they need treatment. Often these include: