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Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
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Test Code: 10211
Specimen Type: Blood
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Description:
This test measures 4 types of antibodies in a blood sample that are associated with the autoimmune disorder Myasthenia Gravis. People with myasthenia gravis experience a breakdown in the communication between their nerves and muscles. This can cause symptoms that include drooping eyelids, slurred speech, difficulty holding up their head, difficulty breathing, difficulty walking, and weakness in muscles throughout the body. This panel includes:
Acetylcholine Receptor (ACHR) Antibodies are a type of autoantibody produced by the immune system that mistakenly targets proteins in the muscles. These proteins, called acetylcholine receptors, allow communication between nerve and muscle fibers. Not every person with MG will show all 3 types of ACHR antibodies. Testing for all 3 types can provide a more thorough screening to aid a person's doctor in making a diagnosis. Determining which type of antibodies are present can also determine which type of treatment will be most effective. Negative results can also help to differentiate MG from other conditions with similar symptoms.
Striational antibodies are named for the pattern in which they bind to muscle tissue. Striational antibodies are not specific to MG and may be found in people with other types of autoimmune disorders. However, they are present in a high percentage of MG cases and when measured along with ACHR antibodies, they can aid in making a diagnosis and well as determining how severe a person's disorder is and how well they will respond to treatment.
This testing may be ordered when a person is experiencing common symptoms of myasthenia gravis. Individual tests for AChR Binding Antibodies, Blocking Antibodies, and Modulating Antibodies are also available.
Turnaround for this test is typically 5-10 business days.
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Note: Result turn around times are an estimate and are not guaranteed. Our reference lab may need additional time due to weather, holidays, confirmation/repeat testing, or equipment maintenance.
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