Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody Reflexive Panel
Also known as: ACHR R PAN
Use
The Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody Reflexive Panel is primarily used for diagnosing myasthenia gravis (MG), a neuromuscular disorder characterized by weakness and rapid fatigue of any of the muscles under voluntary control. Approximately 85-90 percent of patients with MG express antibodies to the acetylcholine receptor (AChR), which can be divided into binding, blocking, and modulating antibodies. These antibodies interfere with neuromuscular transmission, leading to muscle weakness. The reflexive nature of the panel ensures comprehensive assessment by testing for binding and blocking antibodies initially, with a reflex to modulating antibodies if necessary.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
While the test is highly useful for diagnosing myasthenia gravis, it does have limitations. Approximately 10-15 percent of individuals with confirmed myasthenia gravis may have no measurable binding, blocking, or modulating antibodies. The presence of these antibodies is not exclusive to MG and can occasionally be found in other conditions. Results must be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other laboratory tests. Repeated freezing and thawing of specimens can affect the results, so it is crucial to follow storage instructions closely.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (RIA)
Biomarkers
Acetylcholine Receptor Binding
AntibodyAcetylcholine Receptor Blocking
Antibody
LOINC Codes
- 11034-6 - AChR Bind Ab Ser-sCnc
- 42937-3 - AChR Block Ab/AChR Total SFr Ser
Result Turnaround Time
3-7 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Serum
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
ARUP Standard Transport Tube
Collection Instructions
Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection. Transfer 1 mL serum to an ARUP Standard Transport Tube. (Min: 0.5 mL)
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Contaminated, hemolyzed, or severely lipemic specimens.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 48 hours |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 1 year |
Other tests from different labs that may be relevant