Dementia, Autoimmune/Paraneoplastic Evaluation, Spinal Fluid
Use
This test is useful for investigating new onset dementia and cognitive impairment using cerebrospinal fluid specimens, particularly in cases with rapid onset, fluctuating courses, psychiatric symptoms, movement disorders, headaches, and autoimmune stigmata. It is valuable in detecting neural autoantibodies that inform physicians about a likely autoimmune etiology, and it aids in the detection of paraneoplastic causes. The test helps identify patients presenting with autoimmune dementia rather than progressive neurodegenerative disorders, which is crucial as these conditions are potentially reversible with immunotherapy.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Testing is specifically useful when serum testing for certain antibodies is negative, highlighting the additional utility of cerebrospinal fluid analysis. While comprehensive, this panel should be considered as part of a broader diagnostic approach including clinical and imaging findings. Some antibodies may be indicative of an underlying cancer, such as small-cell lung carcinoma or thymoma, emphasizing the need for comprehensive evaluation beyond serological testing.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA), Cell Binding Assay (CBA))
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
Not provided.
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
4 mL
Minimum Volume
2 mL
Container
Sterile vial, preferred collection vial number 1
Collection Instructions
No specific instructions beyond standard CSF collection procedures.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerated is preferred, but ambient and frozen are acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
Reject if gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, or gross icterus is present.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |