Motor Neuron Pathology Neuropathology—Median Neuron Count (CNS)
This test measures the number of surviving motor neurons in a spinal cord or brainstem sample, often used in research or specialized diagnostic contexts for neurodegenerative diseases.
["This test helps assess nerve cell health in rare neurological conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98669-5
- Short code
- Motor NC Pnl L median n
- Synonyms
- Motor NC Pnl L median n
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
The test quantifies the count of motor neurons—specialized nerve cells responsible for transmitting signals from the brain and spinal cord to muscles. This count is typically analyzed in tissue samples from a biopsy, autopsy, or research study to evaluate structural integrity and potential degeneration.
Why It Might Be Ordered
Healthcare providers may order this test for research studies investigating motor neuron diseases (e.g., amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, spinal muscular atrophy) or in specialized clinical settings where detailed neuropathological assessment is needed.
Common Uses in Clinical Practice
While not a routine diagnostic test for most patients, this measurement is critical in advanced diagnostic pathways for neurodegenerative diseases or research settings where precise neuron counts are required to study disease progression.
What to Expect Before the Test
This test involves a biopsy or autopsy procedure, where tissue samples are collected from the spinal cord or brainstem. Results are derived from microscopic examination and are not performed on routine blood or urine samples.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Reduced neuron counts may indicate motor neuron degeneration, which can correlate with disease severity and progression. This information helps guide treatment decisions or research efforts in rare neurological disorders.
Frequently asked questions
How is this test different from standard blood or urine tests?
Will this test be covered by insurance?
What does a low or high neuron count mean?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy