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Myasthenia Gravis - antibody tests
by jmbatgirl, Jan 01, 2008 07:25PM
I have had problems with muscle weakness for several years. A muscle biopsy showed abnormalities 7 years ago but the neurologists couldn't identify a specific disease. A couple months ago I developed a choking sensation. I was sent back to a major medical center, where several tests were done. I was tested for the MUSK antibody, which was negative, but I was not tested for the Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody. The doctor said come back in six months and we'll see how you're doing, call if you get worse.
I didn't realize until I got home that I was not tested for both types of antibodies. Are there reasons why a MUSK test only would be done? Couldn't I have the Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody and not the MUSK?
Thank you for any insight into this.
I didn't realize until I got home that I was not tested for both types of antibodies. Are there reasons why a MUSK test only would be done? Couldn't I have the Acetylcholine Receptor Antibody and not the MUSK?
Thank you for any insight into this.
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I wish you a very Happy new year.
The anti-AChR antibodies are found in about 80% of Myasthenia Gravis patients. This means that there is a large chunk of patients who are sero-negative.
The Muscle specific Tyrosine kinase (MuSK) antibodies are present in a significant number of the seronegative MG. Hence, this antibody test is done to confirm a seronegative MG.
You could have a positive Anti-AchR antibody result and negative anti-MuSK antibodies.
Regards