Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is routinely used in the diagnostic work-up of multiple sclerosis (MS), by detecting CSF-specific oligoclonal bands (OCB). More recently, several studies have reported CSF free light chains (FLC) as an alternative. We show that absolute CSF κFLC concentrations were highly sensitive - more than OCB testing - and specific for clinically isolated syndrome, relapsing remitting and primary progressive MS. Measurement of κFLC alone was sufficient. Our results suggest that CSF κFLC levels measured by nephelometry, if validated in a larger series, are a preferred test to OCB analysis in the diagnostic work-up of patients suspected of having MS.
On of the diagnostic tests in MS the presence of oligoclonal bands
another test is the presence of free immunoglobulin light chains. This study suggests they could be better however we have posted on this before and what specificity and sensitivity means as well as whether oligoclonal bands have had there day.
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