Ganglionic Acetylcholine Receptor Antibodies (GACR)

Department of Immunology

Notes

• Ganglionic (alpha3) acetylcholine receptor antibodies have been reported in the sera of some patients with autoimmune autonomic neuropathy. Their frequency is not yet known.
• They may also be found in patients with paraneoplastic disorders particularly in association with small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) or thymoma.
• Their presence suggests an immunotherapy-responsive condition.
• Test performed by Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

Sample Requirements

Clotted blood. (No patient preparation or special handling required)

Adult

5ml Gold-top SST tube or 3.5ml Rust-top gel tube (Trust users only)

Paediatric

1ml Serum Sample

Turnaround Times

2 months

Time limit for add-on

3 days