LAB TEST
CSF oligoclonal banding
CSF oligoclonal banding is a test to look for inflammation-related proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is the clear fluid that flows in the space around the spinal cord and brain. Oligoclonal bands are proteins called immunoglobulins. The presence of these proteins indicates inflammation of the central nervous system. The presence of oligoclonal bands may point to a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis.
How the Test is Performed
A sample of CSF is needed. A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is the most common way to collect this sample. Other methods for collecting CSF are rarely used, but may be recommended in some cases. They include: Cisternal puncture Ventricular puncture Removal of CSF from a tube that is already in the CSF, such as a shunt…
Why the Test is Performed
This test helps support the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS). However, it does not confirm the diagnosis. Oligoclonal bands in the CSF may also be seen in other illnesses such as: Systemic lupus erythematosus Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection Stroke
Normal Results
Normally, one or no bands should be found in the CSF. Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your health care provider about the meaning of your specific test results. The examples above show the common measurements for results for these tests. Some laboratories use different…
What Abnormal Results Mean
There are two or more bandings found in the CSF and not in the blood. This may be a sign of multiple sclerosis or other diseases causing inflammation in the central nervous system.
References
Deluca GC, Griggs RC. Approach to the patient with neurologic disease. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine . 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 368. Karcher DS, McPherson RA. Cerebrospinal, synovial, serous body fluids, and alternative specimens. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 29/04/2023).
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