Myasthenia Gravis Antibody Profile

The Myasthenia Gravis Antibody Profile measures three types of Acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies and Striated Muscle antibodies in the blood to screen for Myasthenia Gravis.

Quest
LabCorp

Test Code: 10211

CPT Code: 83519(x3),86255

Also Known As: Myasthenia Gravis Test; Acetylcholine Receptor; ACRAB; Myasthenia Gravis Ab

Methodology:

See individual tests

Specimen Type: Blood

Preparation:

No special preparation required.

Test Results:

5-10 days. May take longer based on weather, holiday, or lab delays.

Details:

This test includes a reflexive Striated Muscle Antibody Titer test on positive Striated Muscle Antibody Screen results.

Description

This test measures the three types of Acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies and Striational antibodies in the blood to diagnose Myasthenia Gravis (MG). In addition, this test helps to determine if an individual may have MG or another condition with similar symptoms.

MG is an autoimmune disorder that causes chronic muscle fatigue and weakness throughout the body. Normally, individuals can move their muscles voluntarily when an impulse is transmitted to the nerve endings and prompts the release of a substance called acetylcholine. The acetylcholine binds to the receptors between the nerves and muscles (neuromuscular junction), triggering muscle movement. However, individuals with MG immune systems produce antibodies that obstruct communication between the nerves and muscles. These antibodies hinder muscle movement and cause rapid muscle fatigue or MG.

The three AChR antibodies found in individuals with MG are:

AChR Binding antibodies
AChR Blocking antibodies
AChR Modulating antibodies

Although individuals with MG usually test positive for AChR antibodies, there are cases where individuals with MG do not have these antibodies. In those cases, a Striated Muscle Antibody test may be performed, also known as an anti-MuSK antibody test. This condition is sometimes called MuSK MG.

Common signs or symptoms of MG include:

weak eye movement
drooping eyelids
blurred or double vision
a change in facial expression
difficulty swallowing
shortness of breath
impaired speech
weakness in the arms, hands, fingers, legs, and neck

Individuals may order this test if they are experiencing signs and symptoms that suggest MG or if they are experiencing symptoms but test negative for AChR antibodies. Additionally, this test can help distinguish MG from other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.

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