Multiple Sclerosis Panel 1 Test in UAE | 1500 AED | DHA Certified

Executive Summary & Core Metrics

Diagnostic Accuracy: >95% sensitivity for oligoclonal band detection via isoelectric focusing (IEF) paired with immunoturbidimetry.

Collection Protocol: Hospital Extraction Only – Sample collection is conducted strictly within an accredited hospital facility; mobile home phlebotomy is disabled for safety.

Clinical Support: Post-test telephonic consultation with a licensed physician for result interpretation.

Insurance Verification: Direct WhatsApp verification at +971 54 548 8731.

Test Overview & Methodology

The Multiple Sclerosis Panel 1 test uses paired cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum analysis to detect immunoglobulin G (IgG) oligoclonal bands, a hallmark of intrathecal antibody synthesis indicative of multiple sclerosis. This gold-standard panel provides objective laboratory evidence to support an MS diagnosis when combined with clinical and radiological findings.

Feature	Our Test (Multiple Sclerosis Panel 1)	Alternative Routine IgG Index
Methodology	Isoelectric Focusing (IEF) + Immunoturbidimetry/Nephelometry + Albumin BCG	Simple IgG index calculation (less sensitive)
Diagnostic Sensitivity	>95% (OCBs detected)	~70-80%
Turnaround Time	Next day after 9 AM sample	1-2 days

Physician Insight & Safety Protocols

"As a general practitioner with experience in autoimmune serology, I emphasize that a positive oligoclonal band result requires careful clinical correlation with neurological examination and MRI findings. This test is highly sensitive but not disease-specific, and results should never be interpreted in isolation. Always consult your treating physician for a comprehensive assessment."

— Dr. Ajay Singh | DHA License: 36234132

Advisory: Medication Continuation

⚠️ Medication Warning

Do not discontinue any prescribed medication, especially disease-modifying therapies, without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation may precipitate a relapse.

Exclusion Criteria & Emergency Red Flags

Contraindications to lumbar puncture (e.g., increased intracranial pressure, coagulopathy, local infection at puncture site) — a neurologist clearance must be obtained first.
Severe spinal deformity or recent spinal surgery precluding safe CSF collection.
If severe headache, leg weakness, or bladder/bowel changes occur post-lumbar puncture, seek emergency care immediately.

Specimen Requirement: Serum and CSF must be collected simultaneously; strict adherence to CSF volume (4 mL) and refrigerated shipping (DO NOT FREEZE) is mandatory.

Patient FAQ & Clinical Guidance

1. What is the clinical significance of detecting oligoclonal bands in CSF?

Oligoclonal bands in CSF but not serum indicate intrathecal antibody synthesis, a key biomarker for multiple sclerosis. Confirming the presence of two or more unique bands only in the cerebrospinal fluid provides strong laboratory evidence of central nervous system inflammation typical of MS. This finding assists neurologists in differentiating MS from other neurological conditions and is often integrated with magnetic resonance imaging and clinical history for a definitive diagnosis.

2. Why must serum and CSF be collected simultaneously for this test?

Simultaneous collection allows direct comparison to exclude systemic antibody leakage, ensuring bands are truly CNS‑restricted. If serum and CSF are drawn at different times, transient changes in blood–brain barrier permeability or systemic immunoglobulin production could lead to false‑positive or ambiguous results. Parallel sampling under standardized conditions is essential for accurate interpretation of oligoclonal patterns.

3. What are the specimen handling requirements to ensure accurate results?

Strictly collect 4 mL CSF in a sterile screw‑cap container, 2 mL serum in SST, and ship refrigerated—never freeze. Freezing causes protein degradation and may destroy oligoclonal bands, leading to false‑negative results. The samples must be maintained at 2‑8°C from collection to laboratory arrival, and the CSF volume must be sufficient for concentrating steps. Any deviation from cold‑chain protocols can compromise diagnostic sensitivity.

UAE Regulatory & Data Privacy Adherence

Compliance Framework

This service complies with Federal Decree-Law No. 45 of 2021 on Personal Data Protection (PDPL) and Federal Law No. 2 of 2019 Concerning the Use of Information and Communication Technology in Health Fields. Clinical safety and patient consent are governed by Federal Decree-Law No. 4 of 2016 on Medical Liability. All clinical decisions must be made in partnership with a licensed physician.

ISO 9001:2015 Certified (Cert: INT/EGQ/2509DA/3139).

Clinical & Logistical Metadata

Test Name	Multiple Sclerosis Panel 1 (Oligoclonal Bands CSF & Serum)
Price (AED)	1,500 AED
Turnaround Time	1 day (results reported next day after 9 AM sample receipt)
Sample Type / Matrix	Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) and Serum (paired)
Methodology Used	Isoelectric Focusing (IEF) + Immunoturbidimetry/Nephelometry + Albumin BCG
ICD-10-CM Code	G35
LOINC Code	82726-7
DHA Facility License & Laboratory Address	License: 1143 \| Premises 105, Floor 1, Building 33, Dubai Healthcare City, Dubai, UAE