Biopsy Acetylcholinesterase (AChE Stain) Test
Short Name: AChE Stain
Also known as: Acetylcholinesterase stain, AChE histochemistry, Biopsy AChE
Biopsy Acetylcholinesterase (AChE Stain) Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,500. Uses Enzyme Histochemistry on Tissue biopsy samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 5 days after the sample reaches the laboratory.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Pasupathy Arumugam
Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Biopsy AChE Stain is to evaluate the presence and distribution of acetylcholinesterase in tissue samples. This helps in diagnosing conditions like Hirschsprung disease (where AChE staining is increased in the aganglionic segment), myasthenia gravis, and other neuromuscular junction disorders. The test provides critical information about nerve-muscle interaction and aids in differentiating between various neurological and muscular pathologies.
- Test Code
- 6056
- CPT Code
- 88313
- ICD Code
- R10.9
- Price
- ₹4,500
- Sample Type
- Tissue biopsy
- Result Time
- Reports are typically available within 5 days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Enzyme Histochemistry
Sample Collection
Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking, especially acetylcholinesterase inhibitors. A doctor's prescription is required for this test. No fasting is needed.
Method: Biopsy procedure
Laboratory Analysis
A tissue biopsy will be performed by a healthcare professional. The sample will be placed in normal saline and sent to the laboratory immediately.
Report Delivery
You may experience mild discomfort at the biopsy site. Follow your doctor's instructions for wound care and activity restrictions.
Timeline: Reports are typically available within 5 days after the sample reaches the laboratory.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Biopsy AChE Stain is to evaluate the presence and distribution of acetylcholinesterase in tissue samples. This helps in diagnosing conditions like Hirschsprung disease (where AChE staining is increased in the aganglionic segment), myasthenia gravis, and other neuromuscular junction disorders. The test provides critical information about nerve-muscle interaction and aids in differentiating between various neurological and muscular pathologies.
How to Prepare
- Fresh tissue sample in normal saline
- Avoid formalin fixation unless specified
- Transport to laboratory immediately
- Maintain sample at ambient temperature
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Pasupathy Arumugam — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521
"AChE staining is a valuable adjunct in diagnosing Hirschsprung disease and certain neuromuscular conditions. The pattern of enzyme distribution provides critical diagnostic information."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample fixed in formalin (unless specified)
- Insufficient tissue sample
- Sample dried out or contaminated
- Delayed transport beyond acceptable time
Understanding Your Results
Increased AChE staining in the lamina propria and muscularis mucosae
Reduced AChE activity at neuromuscular junctions
Minimal or no staining in non-neural areas
Consult your doctor if you experience persistent muscle weakness, difficulty swallowing, chronic constipation, or neurological symptoms. Early diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes.
Limitations
- ⚠Requires expert interpretation by a pathologist
- ⚠May not be diagnostic alone; clinical correlation needed
- ⚠Invasive procedure with inherent risks
- ⚠Not available at all centers; requires specialized laboratory
- ⚠Results may be affected by tissue handling and processing
Risks & Considerations
- ●Bleeding at biopsy site
- ●Infection
- ●Pain or discomfort
- ●Allergic reaction to local anesthetic
Interfering Factors
- ●Improper tissue fixation or delayed processing
- ●Use of incorrect staining protocol
- ●Contamination of sample with non-target tissue
- ●Recent use of acetylcholinesterase inhibitors (e.g., donepezil, pyridostigmine)
- ●Hemorrhage or necrosis in the biopsy sample
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Biopsy Acetylcholinesterase (AChE Stain) | Muscle Biopsy with Enzyme Histochemistry | Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS) | Electromyography (EMG) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Biopsy Acetylcholinesterase (AChE Stain) | AChE stain is specific for acetylcholinesterase, while muscle biopsy with enzyme histochemistry evaluates multiple enzymes (e.g., ATPase, NADH) for metabolic myopathies. | NCS assesses electrical conduction along nerves, whereas AChE stain provides tissue-level enzyme distribution. | EMG evaluates muscle electrical activity, while AChE stain is a histochemical test on biopsy tissue. |
Frequently Asked Questions
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