Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) in Serum/Plasma
This test measures the presence of myelin basic protein, a protein found in the protective covering of nerve fibers. It may be checked to help diagnose conditions affecting the central nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis.
["This test can help identify nerve damage or inflammation in the brain and spinal cord."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 17306-2
- Short code
- Myelin IgG Ser Ql
- Synonyms
- Myelin IgG Ser Ql
- 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 Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like numbness, weakness, vision changes, or balance issues that could suggest nerve or brain problems. It may also be used to monitor conditions like multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases.
What Does the Test Involve?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The blood is then processed to separate serum or plasma for testing. The test looks for the protein MBP, which is released when myelin (the protective layer around nerves) is damaged.
What Are Common Uses?
This test is often used to support a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis or other conditions that cause inflammation or damage to the myelin sheath around nerves. It may also be part of monitoring disease activity or response to treatment.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are not typically reported as a single numeric value in this test due to variability in sensitivity and specificity. Instead, they are often interpreted in the context of clinical symptoms and other diagnostic findings.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated levels of MBP in the blood can indicate active demyelination (damage to the myelin sheath) in the central nervous system. While not definitive on its own, it can help confirm or support a diagnosis of conditions like multiple sclerosis, especially when combined with other tests and clinical findings. It may also be used to assess disease progression or treatment effectiveness.
Short name
Myelin Basic Protein (MBP) Test
Frequently asked questions
What does a positive result mean?
Can this test be used to diagnose multiple sclerosis?
There is no strict timeline for when to get tested after symptoms appear. Your healthcare provider will determine the best time based on your symptoms, medical history, and other diagnostic needs. Early testing may be recommended if symptoms suggest a condition like multiple sclerosis or another demyelinating disease.
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