Immunoblot for Antibodies to Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) in Serum
This test detects antibodies against a protein found in the brain’s myelin sheath, which can help identify certain autoimmune conditions affecting the nervous system.
["Helps diagnose conditions like multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases by checking for immune system responses to brain proteins."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 89511-0
- Short code
- GM3 IgG+IgM Ser Ql Line blot
- Synonyms
- GM3 IgG+IgM Ser Ql Line blot
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- line-blot
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) is a key protein in the protective covering of nerve fibers. If your immune system mistakenly attacks MBP, it may produce antibodies that can be detected in your blood. This test looks for these antibodies, which can signal inflammation or damage in the central nervous system.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like numbness, weakness, vision changes, or other neurological issues that could suggest an autoimmune disease targeting the brain or spinal cord.
Common Conditions Linked to Positive Results
Positive results may indicate conditions such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica (devic’s disease), or other inflammatory or demyelinating disorders. However, false positives can occur, so further evaluation is often needed.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The test involves collecting serum (liquid part of blood after clotting).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is primarily used as a diagnostic aid for autoimmune neurological disorders. Elevated antibody levels can support a clinical suspicion of demyelinating diseases but are not definitive on their own. Results should be interpreted alongside patient symptoms, physical exam findings, and possibly additional imaging or tests.
Short name
MBP Antibody Screening (Serum)
Frequently asked questions
Will this test show if I have multiple sclerosis?
What does a positive result mean?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy