Acetylcholine Receptor Binding Antibody Test
This test measures acetylcholine receptor (AChR) binding antibodies in a blood serum sample. These autoantibodies are associated with myasthenia gravis, a disorder that affects the neuromuscular junction.
About this test
Acetylcholine receptor binding antibodies are autoantibodies associated with the loss of functional acetylcholine receptors at the neuromuscular junction, a feature of myasthenia gravis. Quest describes the result as diagnostic, noting that these antibodies are found in 85 to 90 percent of people with myasthenia gravis.
The assay aids in the differential diagnosis of conditions involving myasthenia gravis-like muscle weakness and in monitoring a person's response to therapy over time. The sample is a 1 mL serum specimen, analyzed using radioimmunoassay.
Who might consider this test?
- A clinician reads the antibody result together with symptoms and other findings.
Test details
| Collection | Quest patient service center |
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Quest resources
Additional details
What this test looks at
The test reports the level of acetylcholine receptor binding antibodies in serum. Quest notes that if this binding antibody result is negative, additional testing for modulating and blocking antibodies may be considered, since myasthenia gravis involves autoantibody-mediated loss of receptors at the neuromuscular junction.
This test isn't part of the Celio Health store at the moment, so it can't be ordered or requested here. The test menu lists everything that can.
Laboratory results should always be interpreted by a licensed clinician who knows your health history. This page is information about a test, not medical advice.
Frequently asked questions
What does this test measure?
It measures acetylcholine receptor (AChR) binding antibodies in serum, autoantibodies associated with loss of functional receptors at the neuromuscular junction, a feature of myasthenia gravis.
How is the sample collected?
A blood sample is drawn and collected as serum for radioimmunoassay analysis.
Do I need to prepare for this test?
No preparation instructions are listed for this test, though people follow any instructions their ordering clinician provides.
Can this test be used to monitor treatment?
Quest describes this assay as used in monitoring a person's response to therapy, in addition to aiding differential diagnosis of myasthenia gravis-like muscle weakness.
What happens if the binding antibody result is negative?
Quest notes that additional testing for modulating and blocking antibodies may be considered in that case.