Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) in Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
This test measures the level of myelin basic protein, a protein found in the protective covering of nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord, within your cerebrospinal fluid. It helps assess potential damage to the myelin sheath.
["This test may help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting nerve insulation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21407-2
- Short code
- Myelin IgA Titr Ser
- Synonyms
- Myelin IgA Titr Ser
- 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
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like numbness, weakness, or vision changes that could suggest a condition affecting the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases. It may also be used to evaluate conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome or other inflammatory or infectious processes in the CNS.
What Does the Test Involve?
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then analyzed for the presence of myelin basic protein. This test is typically done in a clinical setting with medical supervision.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are interpreted by a healthcare professional based on your clinical symptoms and other test results. Elevated levels of myelin basic protein in CSF may indicate demyelination or inflammation in the central nervous system, but individual results can vary widely.
What Are the Risks?
The lumbar puncture carries a small risk of headache, infection, or bleeding at the injection site. Most people experience minimal discomfort, and recovery is usually quick.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Myelin Basic Protein in CSF plays a key role in diagnosing and monitoring conditions that disrupt the myelin sheath, such as multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases. Elevated levels may suggest ongoing nerve damage or inflammation, guiding treatment decisions.
Short name
Myelin Basic Protein (CSF)
Frequently asked questions
What does an elevated myelin basic protein level mean?
How is this test different from blood tests for myelin-related proteins?
Can lifestyle changes affect this test result?
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