acetylcholine receptor antibody - All health - Medical Reference Library and Symptom Finder
You are here: Home > Test-Finder > General > acetylcholine-receptor-antibody

 

acetylcholine receptor antibody

Alternative Names 
ACHr Ab, edrophonium test, anti-acetylcholine receptor antibody

Definition
This test determines the amount of edrophonium in a person's body. Edrophonium is a molecule that stimulates muscle contractions.

Who is a candidate for the test? 
The acetylcholine receptor antibody test is used to diagnose myasthenia gravis, a condition in which the muscles become tired and weak. It is also used to monitor response to therapy for myasthenia gravis.

How is the test performed? 
A small puncture is made on the fingertip using a sharp needle. The finger is gently squeezed to obtain a drop of blood. The blood is placed on specially treated paper that can detect antibodies to acetylcholine receptors in the blood.

What is involved in preparation for the test? 
A doctor can provide specific instructions.

What do the test results mean? 
In normal people, no acetylcholine receptor antibodies are present in the blood. The presence of more than .05 nM (nanomoles) of acetylcholine receptors in the blood indicates the person may have myasthenia gravis. Rarely, it can indicate amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, also called Lou Gehrig's disease.

Author: David T. Moran, MD
Reviewer: eknowhow Medical Review Panel
Editor: Dr John Hearne
Last Updated: 7/03/2005
Contributors
Potential conflict of interest information for reviewers available on request
 


This website and article is not a substitute for independent professional advice. Nothing contained in this website is intended to be used as medical advice and it is not intended to be used to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, nor should it be used for therapeutic purposes or as a substitute for your own health professional's advice.  All Health and any associated parties do not accept any liability for any injury, loss or damage incurred by use of or reliance on the information.