Myelin basic protein (MBP) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
This test measures a protein found in the brain and spinal cord that helps diagnose conditions affecting the myelin sheath, such as multiple sclerosis.
["Helps identify potential demyelinating diseases in the nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 8079-6
- Short code
- Myelin IgA Ser-aCnc
- Synonyms
- Myelin IgA Ser-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 Is Myelin Basic Protein Used For?
Myelin basic protein (MBP) is primarily used to detect abnormalities in the myelin sheath, which is the protective layer around nerve fibers. High levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may suggest inflammation or damage to the central nervous system, such as in multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then analyzed in a lab to measure MBP levels using an immunoassay method.
When Might You Need This Test?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like numbness, weakness, vision changes, or other neurological issues that could indicate a condition affecting the myelin sheath. It’s often ordered alongside other tests, such as MRI or evoked potentials.
What Are Common Symptoms Linked to High or Low Levels?
Elevated MBP levels in CSF are most commonly associated with demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis. Symptoms may include muscle weakness, balance problems, or sensory disturbances. Low or normal levels do not definitively rule out these conditions, so results are interpreted alongside clinical findings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Myelin basic protein serves as a biomarker for myelin damage in the central nervous system. While not a definitive diagnostic test alone, it helps confirm or support a diagnosis of demyelinating diseases. Results are critical for monitoring disease progression, guiding treatment decisions, and assessing response to therapy.
Short name
CSF Myelin Basic Protein
Frequently asked questions
Why do I need this test if I have neurological symptoms?
What does it mean if my MBP levels are elevated?
Can this test be done at home, or do I need a doctor’s appointment?
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