Approximately 75 percent of patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) express antibodies to the aquaporin-4 (AQP4) receptor. Diagnosis of NMO requires the presence of longitudinally extensive acute myelitis (lesions extending over 3 or more vertebral segments) and optic neuritis. While absence of antibodies to the AQP4 receptor does not rule out the diagnosis of NMO, presence of this antibody is diagnostic for NMO.
1.0 mL Serum from a SST Gold Top Tube
1.0 mL Serum from a Red Top Tube in a Plastic Vial
After separation of cells
72 hours Ambient
2 weeks Refrigerated
1 month Frozen
Mix by inverting tube 5 times.
Separate from cells ASAP or within 2 hours of collection
Refer to Interpretive Results
Reflexive Testing:
If AQP4 antibody IgG by ELISA is positive, then AQP4 antibody IgG by IFA will be added. If AQP4 antibody IgG by IFA is positive, then an AQP4 antibody IgG titer will be added. Additional charges apply.
Aquaporin-4 Receptor Antibody, IgG by IFA with Reflex to Titer, Serum
REFLEX: Neuromyelitis Optica/AQP4-IgG Titer, Serum
Approximately 75 percent of patients with neuromyelitis optica (NMO) express antibodies to the aquaporin-4 (AQP4) receptor. Diagnosis of NMO requires the presence of longitudinally extensive acute myelitis (lesions extending over 3 or more vertebral segments) and optic neuritis. While absence of antibodies to the AQP4 receptor does not rule out the diagnosis of NMO, presence of this antibody is diagnostic for NMO.
For evaluation of optic neuritis, acute myelitis, spinal cord lesions, or autoimmune encephalitis
2 to 7 days
00913333
86051