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Sulfatide Immunoblot (Serum)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for antibodies against sulfatide, a rare lipid found in certain tissues. It may help diagnose conditions like metachromatic leukodystrophy or other lysosomal storage disorders.

Quick summary

["This test helps identify rare genetic disorders affecting lipid metabolism."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
82447-4
Short code
Sulfatide IgM Ser Ql Line blot
Synonyms
Sulfatide 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

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like developmental delays, muscle weakness, or neurological issues. It’s often used in research or specialized diagnostic centers for inherited metabolic disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll provide a blood sample, usually drawn from your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using an immunoblot technique to detect sulfatide-specific antibodies.

How the Test Works

The test involves separating proteins in your serum and applying them to a blot. Antibodies against sulfatide bind to specific spots, which are then detected and analyzed to confirm presence or absence.

Possible Results and Next Steps

A positive result means antibodies are present, which may indicate a metabolic disorder. A negative result suggests no sulfatide antibodies were detected, but further testing may still be needed for other causes of symptoms.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Sulfatide antibodies are linked to lysosomal storage diseases, such as metachromatic leukodystrophy, which can cause progressive nerve damage. Early detection may influence treatment planning or genetic counseling options.

Short name

Sulfatide Antibody Screening

Frequently asked questions

What does a positive result mean?
A positive result suggests the presence of sulfatide antibodies, which could be associated with certain rare genetic disorders. Your doctor will discuss next steps, such as additional genetic testing or monitoring.
Is this test commonly performed in routine care?
No, this test is rarely done in standard medical care. It’s typically reserved for specialized centers or research settings when symptoms suggest a metabolic disorder.
How long does it take to get results?
Results may take several days to a couple of weeks, depending on lab processing times and confirmation steps.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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