CSF Oligoclonal Bands

Code:
COLIGO

Sample Type:

CSF (White Top) and paired serum sample (Gold Top).

Minimum volume: 0.5 mL

 

Ref Ranges/Units:

N/A – Interpretation provided

Turnaround:

Referral test – approximately 2 weeks

Special Precautions/Comments:

Paired serum sample must be sent for interpretation. 

Do not send samples via pneumatic air tube.

Additional Information:

The CSF oligoclonal bands test is used to determine the presence of intrathecal IgG synthesis (local synthesis in the CSF). Intrathecal IgG synthesis is characteristically seen in patients with demyelinating disease such as Multiple Sclerosis. However, IgG may also be present in the CSF when IgG crosses blood-CSF barriers in systemic inflammation. 

The CSF and serum samples are therefore run in parallel and compared to determine if IgG synthesis is systemic (matching bands present in CSF and serum) or intrathecal (present in CSF only). 

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