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C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 13 (CXCL13)

Published: July 27, 2026Updated: August 25, 2026

CXCL13 is a chemokine that plays a crucial role in the recruitment of B cells and is involved in the formation of lymphoid follicles. It is primarily measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to aid in the diagnosis of neurological disorders.

Quick summary

CXCL13 is a biomarker used to diagnose neurological disorders by measuring its levels in CSF.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 25, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

Units
pg/mL
Clinical utility
diagnostic
Result kind
quantitative
FDA-cleared
R&D Systems CXCL13 ELISA, Meso Scale Discovery CXCL13
interpretation: {"text":"CXCL13 levels within the range of 0–160 pg/mL are considered normal.","label":"Normal"}; {"text":"Levels above 160 pg/mL may indicate neuroinflammation or infection, such as neuroborreliosis.","label":"Elevated"}

CXCL13, also known as B cell-attracting chemokine 1 (BCA-1), is a chemokine that attracts B cells and is essential for the formation of lymphoid tissue. Elevated levels of CXCL13 in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) have been associated with neuroinflammatory and neurodegenerative conditions.

In clinical settings, CXCL13 is often used as a diagnostic marker for neuroborreliosis, a neurological complication of Lyme disease. Its levels can also be elevated in other neurological infections and inflammatory conditions.

The normal reference range for CXCL13 in CSF is typically between 0–160 pg/mL. Levels above this range may indicate the presence of a neurological disorder, prompting further diagnostic evaluation.

Frequently asked questions

What is the role of CXCL13 in the body?
CXCL13 is responsible for the recruitment of B cells and is crucial for the formation of lymphoid tissue.
What conditions can cause elevated CXCL13 levels?
Elevated CXCL13 levels can be seen in neuroinflammatory conditions, neurodegenerative diseases, and infections like neuroborreliosis.
  1. 1
    CXCL13 as a Diagnostic Marker in NeuroborreliosisSource
  2. 2
    Role of CXCL13 in Central Nervous System InflammationSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy