Acetylcholine Receptor Autoantibodies Test Cost & Procedure

What is the purpose of this examination? 

With the use of this test, you may find out how much acetylcholine receptor (AChR) antibodies is present in your blood.

A substance called acetylcholine aids in muscle contraction. Between nerves and muscles, it serves as a transmitter. Myasthenia gravis (MG) patients frequently produce an aberrant protein known as acetylcholine receptor antibodies. This protein alters how acetylcholine functions. This initially results in ocular muscle weakening. Double vision or sagging eyelids could be present. Because your body produces the antibody that targets how acetylcholine typically functions, MG is an autoimmune condition.

The majority of those who with the condition live regular lives, yet they nevertheless require treatment to manage its crippling effects. These typically include

• Breathing difficulty
• Difficulties speaking normally
• Sagging eyelids
• Shaky walking
• Arms, legs, neck, and finger weakness

I need this test-why?

If your doctor has a suspicion that you have MG, you might be subjected to this test. Muscle weakness throughout your body and issues with breathing are just a few of the symptoms of MG. The main signs are a weakening in the muscles that control

Motion of the eyes and eyelids detected by ocular MG

• A person's expression
• Swallowing and chewing
• Talking
• Leg and arm motion

What further tests might I have in addition to this one?

These tests may also be prescribed by your doctor to look for MG

Tyrosine kinase receptor specialised for muscles (MuSK). When there is no AChR antibody present, 3 to 4 out of every 10 MG patients may have the MuSK antibody.

Repeatedly stimulating the nerves (RNS). This is done to gauge how strongly muscles will react to low-frequency nerve stimulation. As the nerve stimulation continues, people with MG are likely to experience a response that gets progressively weaker.

Electromyography using a single fibre (SFEMG). "Muscle jitter" is a a reaction to the electrical incitation of this examination in populace with MG and an occasional other illness. This contraction is twitchy and uneven. A normal SFEMG test in a weak muscle indicates that the weakness is not being caused by MG.

Scanning images The diagnosis of thymoma can be made using CT or MRI scans. This thymus gland tumour can occasionally appear alongside MG.

Tests of lung function. These evaluate how powerful the respiratory muscles are.

How is this test carried out?

A blood sample must be provided for the test, which is obtained by inserting a needle into an arm vein.

Is there a danger involved with this test?

Small hazards associated with drawing blood with a needle include bleeding, infection, bruising, and feeling queasy. You can experience a minor stinging or soreness as the needle pricks your arm. Afterward, the area can feel a little tender.