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A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Huntingdon, PA

What do they look at in a spinal tap? My results are back but they won't tell me anything until my appointment which is 2 weeks away

February 11, 2019
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A MyMSTeam Member

Anti bodies in Spinal fluid means there's more likelihood of Ms being in the body

February 11, 2019
A MyMSTeam Member

From what I looked at is my red and white blood cells is elevated what does that mean

February 11, 2019
A MyMSTeam Member

I hope this helps.
MSF 11tap Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
Overview
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless liquid that bathes the brain and spinal cord. While the primary function of CSF is to cushion the brain within the skull and serve as a shock absorber for the central nervous system, CSF also circulates nutrients and chemicals filtered from the blood and removes waste products from the brain. Examining the fluid can be useful in diagnosing many diseases of the nervous system, including MS.
CSF is obtained by doing a lumbar puncture or “spinal tap” — most often with the person lying on his or her side. After cleansing and injecting an anesthetic into the area, a long, thin, hollow needle is inserted between two bones in the lower spine and into the space where the CSF circulates. One to two tablespoons of the fluid are withdrawn through the syringe.
Uses in MS
The CSF of people with MS usually contains:
• Elevated levels of IgG antibodies, as well as
• A specific group of proteins called oligoclonal bands.
• Occasionally there are also certain proteins that are the breakdown products of myelin.
These findings indicate an abnormal immune response within the central nervous system, meaning that the body is producing an immune response against itself.
• An abnormal immune response in CSF is found in a number of other diseases, so the test is not specific for MS;
• Conversely, some 5-10 percent of patients with MS never show these CSF abnormalities.
Therefore, CSF analysis by itself cannot confirm or rule out a diagnosis of MS. It must be part of the total clinical picture that takes into account the findings of the person’s history and neurologic exam as well other diagnostic procedures.

February 11, 2019
MyMSTeam

A spinal tap, also known as a lumbar puncture, is a diagnostic procedure used to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the lower back. Here are some key points about the procedure and its relevance to multiple sclerosis (MS):

Purpose
- Diagnosis: Helps diagnose multiple sclerosis by analyzing CSF for signs of Show Full Answer

A spinal tap, also known as a lumbar puncture, is a diagnostic procedure used to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from the lower back. Here are some key points about the procedure and its relevance to multiple sclerosis (MS):

Purpose:
- Diagnosis: Helps diagnose multiple sclerosis by analyzing CSF for signs of inflammation, infection, and other abnormalities.
- CSF Analysis: Tests for blood cell counts, protein and glucose levels, and antibodies, including oligoclonal bands which indicate inflammation in the central nervous system.

Procedure:
- Duration: Typically takes about 45 minutes.
- Position: You will lie on your side with legs pulled up to your chest or sit upright and bend forward.
- Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is injected to numb the area.
- Needle Insertion: A long, thin, hollow needle is inserted into the spinal cavity to collect CSF. You may feel pressure or sharp pain if the needle touches a nerve.
- Post-Procedure: You will lie flat for an hour or more to minimize the risk of a spinal headache, a common side effect due to decreased pressure in the head.

Considerations:
- Not Definitive Alone: A negative result does not rule out MS. Other tests like MRI, physical and neurological exams, and blood tests are also used.
- Side Effects: Common side effects include headaches and the need to avoid intense activity post-procedure.

For more detailed information, you can refer to the article on lumbar puncture and MS diagnosis [here](https://www.mymsteam.com/resources/lumbar-punct...).

July 14, 2024
A MyMSTeam Member

They won't give me results until I go to see the doctor

February 11, 2019

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A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
New Jersey, NJ