The diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) can be supported by the presence of oligoclonal bands in the CSF. The presence of IgG oligoclonal bands confined to the CSF (i.e. absent from a paired serum or with bands in addition to those found in a paired serum) is indicative of local immunoglobulin synthesis within the CSF.
Tube
Serum Gel
ID
12783
Availability
Weekdays.
Additional Information
In MS patients, plasma cells residing within the CNS secrete IgG immunoglobulins into to CSF. Serum immunoglobulins are also present in low concentration in the CSF. Isoelectric focusing is used to detect IgG oligoclonal bands within the CSF and serum. Over 90% of patients with clinically definite Multiple Sclerosis have CSF IgG Oligoclonal bands.
However CSF IgG Oligoclonal bands are not specific for MS and have been described in many other disorders including various infective and inflammatory diseases of the CNS e.g. viral encephalitis, bacterial meningitis, neurosyphilis and SLE, however, in most of these diseases oligoclonal bands are uncommon.
Turn Around
Due to extended service pressures please note our TAT have been temporarily extended by 6 weeks beyond the times stated above/below. Please do not contact the lab before this time frame unless there is a clinically urgent need.
Send to
Leeds General Infirmary
Clinical Immunology
Old Medical School
Great George Street
Leeds
LS1 3EX
Collection Con
Paired CSF and serum samples are required.
Frequency
Monthly.
Sample REQ
CSF & Blood
Ref. Range (Male)
NA Interpretive.
Ref. Range (Female)
NA Interpretive.
Ref. Range (Paed)
NA Interpretive.
Ref. Range Notes
Positive/Negative
Units
– Not Defined –
IP Acute TAT
Contact Laboratory
IP Routine TAT
Due to extended service pressures please note our TAT have been temporarily extended by 6 weeks beyond the times stated above/below. Please do not contact the lab before this time frame unless there is a clinically urgent need.
GP Acute TAT
Contact Laboratory
GP Routine TAT
Due to extended service pressures please note our TAT have been temporarily extended by 6 weeks beyond the times stated above/below. Please do not contact the lab before this time frame unless there is a clinically urgent need.