A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z # |
Acetylcholine Receptor Ganglionic (Alpha 3) Antibody
Test Code93881
Alias/See Also
LAB01156
CPT Codes
83519
Preferred Specimen
1 mL serum
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Transport Container
Transport tube
Transport Temperature
Frozen
Specimen Stability
Room temperature: 48 hours
Refrigerated: 48 hours
Frozen: 75 days
Refrigerated: 48 hours
Frozen: 75 days
Methodology
Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
Setup Schedule
Mon, wed
Report Available
7-14 days
Reference Range
<55 pmol/L
Negative | <55 pmol/L |
Borderline | 55-160 pmol/L |
Positive | >160 pmol/L |
Clinical Significance
The G-nAChR autoantibody assay can be used to identify Autoimmune Autonomic Ganglionopathy (AAG) or paraneoplastic AAG in patients with autonomic neuropathy. Identification of paraneoplastic AAG in a patient is important, as there is an association between increased levels of G-nAChR antibodies and small-cell lung cancer (SCLC) or thymoma. Detection of paraneoplastic AAG, followed by resection and/or treatment of the patients’ tumor, can lead to a successful patient recovery. The G-nAChR autoantibody assay can be used as a serological diagnostic tool to differentiate patients suffering from immmunotreatment-responsive AAG from idiopathic autonomic neuropathy. Both conditions can present as acquired Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) dysfunction characterized by diffuse autonomic nervous system failure. The demonstration of AAG can lead to a focused immunological treatment and successful patient recovery. The G-nAChR antibody assay can also identify patients with limited forms of dysmotility, diabetic autonomic neuropathy, or postural tachycardia syndrome.
Performing Laboratory
Quest Diagnostics Nichols Institute-San Juan Capistrano, CA |
33608 Ortega Highway |
San Juan Capistrano, CA 92675-2042 |