Scott,
I was on Morphine for years but my pain was still off the charts. A few years ago I put on Prialt. You need a pain pump for that medication. I’m seen in Stanford pain clinic for that treatment. It is a non narcotic and now I’m 100% pain free.
Rich

2021 my spinal tap (Mayo Az) resulted showing 12 OCBs. Spinal fluid I donated for research (2022 UCSF) showed 13 OCBs.

Thx … Yes, neurologist didn’t have an answer.
I was 63 at MS Dx in 2021, he suspects I had MS related transverse myelitis in 2017 (erroneously Dx as peripheral neuropathy) and potentially have had MS since a 1997 pars planitis Dx.
Just posed same question to Chat GPT …
Reply
Oligoclonal bands (OCBs) are a characteristic finding in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). They represent the presence of a few distinct populations of antibody-producing cells in the central nervous system. In the context of MS, OCBs are thought to result from an immune response targeting components of the nervous system.

Having 13 oligoclonal bands is a relatively high number and could indicate a more complex immune response in the central nervous system. While I can't provide real-time or specific medical advice, here are some general factors that might contribute to this phenomenon:

Diversity of Antigen Targets: The immune system in MS may target multiple components of the nervous system, leading to the production of a larger number of oligoclonal bands. These antigens might include myelin proteins such as myelin basic protein (MBP), myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG), and others.
Disease Severity and Duration: A higher number of OCBs might correlate with more severe disease or longer disease duration. Over time, the immune response in MS can evolve and diversify, leading to the presence of more OCBs.
Heterogeneity of the Disease: MS is a heterogeneous disease, meaning it can manifest in various ways with differing clinical and pathological characteristics. Different patterns of OCBs might reflect distinct subtypes or stages of the disease.
Genetic Factors: Genetic predisposition plays a role in MS susceptibility and disease progression. Different genetic profiles might contribute to the diversity of OCBs.
Environmental Triggers: Environmental factors, such as viral infections or other immune triggers, might lead to a more complex and diverse immune response in the central nervous system.
Immune System Dysregulation: Dysregulation of the immune system can lead to a broader range of immune responses, including the production of more oligoclonal bands.
Underlying Conditions: Sometimes, other underlying conditions can mimic or overlap with MS. These conditions might also contribute to the presence of multiple OCBs.
Diagnostic Challenges: The interpretation of OCB patterns can be complex and might vary between laboratories. Sometimes, technical or interpretational factors might lead to the observation of more bands.
It's important to note that a medical professional with expertise in neurology and multiple sclerosis would be the best person to provide accurate insights into an individual case. If you or someone you know is concerned about the presence of 13 oligoclonal bands in the context of MS, it's recommended to consult a neurologist for a thorough evaluation and appropriate guidance.

Did you ask your neuro?