Analysis of IgG oligoclonal bands (NPU17076)

The analysis is used for detection of oligoclonal bands in patients that can be used in the diagnosis of MS.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum are run on an agarose gel and separated by use of isoelectric focusing. Gel analysis will show if IgG oligoclonal bands are present in the CSF only compared with the serum sample.

The international definition of “positive for oligoclonal bands” is that at least two bands are seen in the CSF sample not present in the corresponding serum sample. If only a single band or no bands are seen in CSF as compared to serum, then the result is negative. In the case of a single band only in the CSF and not in the serum, we suggest sending a new sample after 3-12 months, since there may be a development to positivity over time.

Samples are analysed in Neuroimmunology Laboratory every week, and results are given as positive or negative for oligoclonal bands or negative with one oligoclonal band.

Positive results demonstrate inflammation in the CNS with production of IgG. However, this is not specific for MS, since several other diseases also may demonstrate oligoclonal bands. In MS more than 95% of the patients generate oligoclonal bands.

The results of the analysis are sent to LABKAII/sundhedsplatform at hospitals in Region H and by ordinary mail to other hospitals as soon as possible after analysis.

Please, remember to send both serum and CSF samples from the patient, since the analysis requires both.

Price per analysis

807 d.kr.