AChR - Acetyl Choline Receptor Antibodies

The AChR - Acetyl Choline Receptor Antibodies test measures the concentration of antibodies to Ach receptors in the blood that may affect the neuro-muscular junction. It may be done in patients suspected to have Myasthenia Gravis (MG), a neuromuscular condition affecting certain skeletal muscles of the body, thereby aiding in its diagnosis. The symptoms include muscle weakness that may present as breathing difficulties, general tiredness, muscle fatigue and even weakness of the optical muscles. Positive test indicates antibodies to Ach receptors often found in MG. However, these antibodies can also be found in some other disorders like- primary biliary cirrhosis, tardive dyskinesia, autoimmune thyroiditis, systemic lupus erythematous, thymoma without myasthenia, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Negative result does not indicate absence of MG, as antibody titres can be negative or not detectable in the first 12 months after the onset of symptoms of MG or during immunosuppressant therapy. Results should be correlated with the clinical findings as well.