Test Name
OLIGOCLONAL BAND, CSF & SERUM
Aliases
-
Abbreviations
OCB, SERUM & CSF
Test Classification
GROUPED TEST
Department
SPECIAL CHEMISTRY
Sub Department
-
TAT Category
BUSINESS (WORKING) TIME
Estimated TAT
144
TAT Units
HOURS
Test Requirements
TWO samples COLLECTED AT THE SAME TIME required i.e. concurrently collected CSF (1-2mL; in sterile plastic vial) AND serum (2mL). 3rd or 4th CSF collection tube is preferred to minimize CSF contamination with blood. Transport both samples refrigerated.
Test components: CSF/Serum Immunofixation Electrophoresis, CSF/serum IgG Oligoclonal Bands, CSF/Serum Albumin and IgG Levels, CSF/Serum IgG Synthesis Rate, Albumin/IgG Index
SAMPLE TYPE: If multiple CSF tests are required, minimum is 5ml divided between 3-4 sequentially labelled tubes. When this is done, tube 2 is used for microbiological tests. Further details on this can be found at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MrqeWtceFek&t=14s
Clinical Utility
Detection of unique immunoglobulin bands in CSF consistent with intrathecal immunoglobulin synthesis. Such bands may occur in multiple sclerosis and other CNS disorders.
Last Review
26th Feb 2026