and IgM

Laboratory assay overview

This panel may be ordered to assist in the initial diagnosis and subsequent management of inflammatory, infectious, autoimmune, neoplastic, or other immune-mediated disorders affecting the nervous system. Quantitative values for IgM, IgG, and IgA will be reported [1]. Immunoglobulins, or antibodies, are proteins made by the immune system in response to an infection or other potential threat. Immunoglobulins come in various forms (IgM, IgG, IgA, and others) and have unique properties and functions to coordinate the body’s response [1]. A serum-based immunoglobulin panel (test code 7083) can also be used to evaluate conditions associated with abnormal immunoglobulin levels; however, this test, which uses CSF as the sample is preferred if there is clinical suspicion of multiple sclerosis (MS). About 80% of patients with MS have elevated IgG antibody levels in their CSF, making this test useful for diagnosis [2]. This test should be interpreted in the context of pertinent clinical and family history and physical examination findings. References 1. Burtis C, et al. Tietz Fundamentals of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics. St Louis, Missouri: Elsevier; 2015:310-314. 2. National Institutes of Health. CSF immunoglobulins G (IgG) index. https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/csf-immunoglobulin-g-igg-index/. Last updated June 27, 2018. Accessed January 14, 2020.