Neurochondrin Antibody, Tissue Immunofluorescence Titer, Spinal Fluid
Use
This test is useful for detecting neurochondrin-IgG in spinal fluid (CSF) from patients presenting with cerebellar and brainstem syndrome. The presence of neurochondrin-IgG suggests autoimmune cerebellar degeneration. Patients with this condition typically show a subacute to chronic cerebellar and brainstem syndrome and respond to long-term immunosuppressive treatment, leading to clinical stabilization or improvement.
Special Instructions
This test is not orderable directly and is performed as a reflex test when certain patterns are observed in indirect immunofluorescence assays. It involves comprehensive testing within the autoimmune/paraneoplastic evaluation for various CNS disorders.
Limitations
A negative result does not exclude neurological autoimmunity or the presence of cancer. While a positive result supports a diagnosis of central nervous system autoimmunity, especially when associated with cerebellar ataxia and brainstem encephalitis, a paraneoplastic cause should also be considered. Neurological improvement may occur with immunotherapy, though the absence of improvement does not negate the disease.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (Indirect Immunofluorescence Assay (IFA))
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 101453-9
- 101453-9
Result Turnaround Time
5-10 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
1.5 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Sterile vial
Collection Instructions
Collect cerebrospinal fluid in a sterile vial with a volume of 1.5 mL for testing. This test is only performed as a reflex following initial evaluations showing indirect immunofluorescence patterns suggestive of neurochondrin.
Storage Instructions
Keep the specimen refrigerated (preferred) or frozen if necessary. Ambient stability is limited to 72 hours.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis, gross lipemia, gross icterus
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 72 hours |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |