Oligoclonal Bands (CSF & Serum) – BC144
🧠 Neurology & MS Diagnosis
₹2899
MRP ₹3080
Sample Time: 4:30 PM
Report: Next day Evening
Sample Type: Paired Sample (CSF + Blood Serum)
Test Code: BC144
Report: Next day Evening
Sample Type: Paired Sample (CSF + Blood Serum)
Test Code: BC144
About this Test:
The Oligoclonal Bands (OCB) test detects the presence of specific proteins (immunoglobulins) in the Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) that are not present in the blood. This indicates inflammation within the central nervous system. It is the gold standard supportive test for diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
✔ Paired Testing: Requires both CSF (spinal fluid) and Blood to be collected at the same time for accurate comparison.
✔ Detects Intrathecal Synthesis (production of antibodies inside the brain/spine).
✔ Helps diagnose MS, Lyme disease, Neurosyphilis, and other inflammatory brain conditions.
✔ Uses advanced Isoelectric Focusing (IEF) technology.
The Oligoclonal Bands (OCB) test detects the presence of specific proteins (immunoglobulins) in the Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) that are not present in the blood. This indicates inflammation within the central nervous system. It is the gold standard supportive test for diagnosing Multiple Sclerosis (MS).
✔ Paired Testing: Requires both CSF (spinal fluid) and Blood to be collected at the same time for accurate comparison.
✔ Detects Intrathecal Synthesis (production of antibodies inside the brain/spine).
✔ Helps diagnose MS, Lyme disease, Neurosyphilis, and other inflammatory brain conditions.
✔ Uses advanced Isoelectric Focusing (IEF) technology.
Decoding the Bands: A Key to MS Diagnosis
Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is a condition where the immune system attacks the protective covering of nerves (myelin). When this happens, B-cells (immune cells) cross into the brain and spinal cord and produce specific antibodies. These antibodies show up as distinct "bands" when the fluid is analyzed using electricity (electrophoresis).
Why Paired Samples are Critical
To prove that the inflammation is happening only in the brain (characteristic of MS) and not in the rest of the body, the laboratory must compare your Spinal Fluid (CSF) with your Blood (Serum).
- Positive Result (Type 2 Pattern): Oligoclonal bands are found in the CSF but not in the blood. This suggests MS.
- Negative Result (Type 1 Pattern): No bands in either fluid. MS is less likely.
- Systemic Inflammation (Type 4 Pattern): Identical bands found in both CSF and Blood. This usually indicates a body-wide infection or autoimmune issue, not specifically MS.
Because of this comparison requirement, it is essential that the blood sample is drawn around the same time as the lumbar puncture procedure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is the Oligoclonal Bands test performed?
It is primarily performed to help diagnose Multiple Sclerosis (MS). About 90-95% of people with MS will have positive oligoclonal bands in their spinal fluid. It can also detect other inflammatory conditions of the brain.
It is primarily performed to help diagnose Multiple Sclerosis (MS). About 90-95% of people with MS will have positive oligoclonal bands in their spinal fluid. It can also detect other inflammatory conditions of the brain.
Q2: How is the sample collected?
This test requires two samples: 1) A blood sample drawn from your arm. 2) Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected by a doctor via a Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap) procedure.
This test requires two samples: 1) A blood sample drawn from your arm. 2) Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected by a doctor via a Lumbar Puncture (spinal tap) procedure.
Q3: Does a positive result definitely mean I have MS?
Not necessarily. While it is a strong indicator of MS, positive bands can also be seen in conditions like Lyme disease, Syphilis, or viral encephalitis. Your neurologist will interpret the result alongside your MRI scans and symptoms.
Not necessarily. While it is a strong indicator of MS, positive bands can also be seen in conditions like Lyme disease, Syphilis, or viral encephalitis. Your neurologist will interpret the result alongside your MRI scans and symptoms.
Q4: Is the lumbar puncture painful?
A lumbar puncture is a medical procedure performed by a specialist. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you should feel pressure but minimal pain. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes.
A lumbar puncture is a medical procedure performed by a specialist. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area, so you should feel pressure but minimal pain. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes.
Q5: Do I need to fast for this test?
No, fasting is not generally required for the Oligoclonal Bands test.
No, fasting is not generally required for the Oligoclonal Bands test.