CSF oligoclonal banding

Alternative names:

cerebrospinal fluid - immunofixation

How the test is performed:

Adult or child:
Blood is drawn from a vein (venipuncture), usually from the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The puncture site is cleaned with antiseptic, and a tourniquet (an elastic band) or blood pressure cuff is placed around the upper arm to apply pressure and restrict blood flow through the vein. This causes veins below the tourniquet to distend (fill with blood). A needle is inserted into the vein, and the blood is collected in an air-tight vial or a syringe. During the procedure, the tourniquet is removed to restore circulation. Once the blood has been collected, the needle is removed, and the puncture site is covered to stop any bleeding.

Infant or young child:
The area is cleansed with antiseptic and punctured with a sharp needle or a lancet. The blood may be collected in a pipette (small glass tube), on a slide, onto a test strip, or into a small container. Cotton or a bandage may be applied to the puncture site if there is any continued bleeding.

Within 2 hours of the venipuncture, a lumbar puncture is done to obtain a CSF sample. The cerebrospinal fluid is then analyzed in the lab.

How to prepare for the test:

You must sign a consent form. You must be prepared to remain in the hospital for at least the 6 to 8 hours that you must remain flat.

Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:

• infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

The position used during lumbar puncture may be uncomfortable, but it is imperative that the person remain in the curled position to avoid moving the needle and possibly injuring the spinal cord.

There is some discomfort with the needle prick and the insertion of the lumbar puncture needle. When the fluid is withdrawn, there may be a feeling of pressure.

Why the test is performed:

This test helps confirm the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS).