Oligoclonal band
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Oligoclonal bands are about two to five bands of immunoglobulins on protein electrophoresis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or blood plasma. Each band is understood to represent protein secreted by plasma cells, though why exactly these bands are shown and what proteins (or its fragments) these bands represent has not yet been elucidated.
For the CSF analysis, a patient has a lumbar puncture performed, which removes some of their cerebrospinal fluid. This fluid is then analysed by a method called protein electrophoresis. As a result of this analysis, one possible result is that about two to five bands of immunoglobulins, known as oligoclonal bands, are evident.
The presence of oligoclonal bands in spinal fluid often indicates a disease of the central nervous system if the bands are not also found in blood serum. The presence of one band (a monoclonal band) is not considered serious and may simply be normal. More bands may reflect pathology. The bands usually disappear from the spinal fluid as a person recovers from the neurological disease.
Approximately 79%-90% of all patients with multiple sclerosis have these bands. For those who possibly have the disease, these bands are an important indicator. The bands are permanent in these patients.
Oligoclonal bands are also found in:
[edit] External links
- The Medical School, Birmingham University - Abid R Karim, Birmingham UK Presentation of real world examples and further insights
