Myelopathy, Autoimmune/Paraneoplastic Evaluation, Serum

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC42114Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID MAS1CPT Codes 84182, 86053, 86255, 86256, 86341, 86363

Myelopathy, Autoimmune/Paraneoplastic Evaluation, Serum

Clinical Use

Use

This test is useful for evaluating patients suspected of having autoimmune myelopathy, myelitis, and paraneoplastic myelopathy using serum specimens. Autoimmune myelopathy presents with subacute onset and rapid progression of spinal cord symptoms including weakness, gait difficulties, loss of sensation, neuropathic pain, and bowel and bladder dysfunction. Clinical history, examination, spinal cord MRI, and cerebrospinal fluid testing may provide clues for an autoimmune diagnosis. This evaluation assists in distinguishing autoimmune from other myelopathies, such as multiple sclerosis, sarcoidosis, or vascular disease, and aids in early diagnosis of occult cancer, enabling prompt initiation of immune therapies.

Special Instructions

This test must not be requested for patients who have recently received radioisotopes due to potential assay interference. Specimens will be screened for radioactivity before analysis. Ensure specimen collection is done before starting immunosuppressant medication or IVIg treatment. Provided information should include relevant clinical data and ordering healthcare professional details.

Limitations

Negative results do not exclude a diagnosis of autoimmune myelopathy. Intravenous immunoglobulin treatment prior to serum collection may cause false-positive results. This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic consistent with CLIA requirements but has not been cleared or approved by the FDA.

Test Details

New York Approved