Spinal Tap Test and Multiple Sclerosis Diagnosis

AĀ spinal tapĀ (also known as lumbar puncture) is one of the tests used toĀ diagnose multiple sclerosis (MS). The test is done in a hospital or clinic setting where a small sample of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is collected, using a thin needle, from the lower lumber region (lower back). AĀ sample that showsĀ abnormal resultsĀ inĀ proteins and inflammatory cells mayĀ indicateĀ MS.

Besides MS, this test is usedĀ to confirm conditionsĀ such as meningitis, Guillain-Barre syndrome, or brain and spinal cord cancers.

Getting a spinal tap

CSFĀ is clear liquid that acts as a cushion, protecting the brain and the spinal cord. Usually, this fluid is colorless and has the same consistency as water. Nutrients, and substances as well as waste products from the brain,Ā moveĀ through cerebrospinal fluid.

Before the test, your may be askedĀ to take aĀ computerized tomography (CT)Ā or aĀ magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)Ā scan to make sure that this test is necessary. Tell your doctor if youā€™re taking blood-thinning medication (anticoagulants).

You will be asked to wear a hospital gown and likely will be told to lie on your side with your legs pulled up to the chest. The position flexes and spreads the vertebrae, soĀ the doctor can more easily insert a needle Ā between two lower lumbar-region vertebrate. (You will have already be given a local anesthetic toĀ numb the area.) AĀ thin, hollow needle is inserted, passing between vertebrate and through the spinal membrane into the spinal canal.

CSF pressure is measured, and a small fluid sample is collected for analysis, then another measure ofĀ fluid pressure is taken. While the needle is in, you may feel some pressure in your back. While the needle is being placed, you may also feel a sudden and brief, sharp pain in a leg,Ā shouldĀ the needle touch a nerve in the canal.

A bandage will beĀ placed over theĀ site, and you may be toldĀ to lie stillĀ for a while to reduce the change of post-procedure headaches.

The entire procedure lasts about 45 minutes, and itĀ usually takesĀ less than 2 days for your body to naturally replace lostĀ fluid.

Possible side effects

Spinal tap tests are typicallyĀ very low risk. However, some people may experience any of theseĀ side effects:

  • Headache.Ā This is the most common side effect, and it usually starts a day or twoĀ after the test. It can last from a few hours to a week or more. Headaches are usually worse while standing or sitting, and can be accompaniedĀ nausea, vomiting or dizziness. They are best treated with bed rest, drinking fluids, andĀ simpleĀ painkillers.
  • Back pain.Ā Some people may have lower back pain after the test. Usually, the pain is confined to theĀ area where the needle penetrated,Ā but pain can also be felt in the legs.
  • Bleeding.Ā There is a risk of bleeding near the area where the needle was inserted. In rare situations, bleeding can occur in the epidural areaĀ in the spine itself.

Spinal tap and MS diagnosis

After the CSF sample is collected, the sample is sent to laboratory to test for immune cells, antibodies, and otherĀ proteins that indicate an abnormal immune system response within the central nervous system, a sign that the body is attacking itself.

Results indicatingĀ MSĀ may include:

  • Presence ofĀ oligoclonal bands, a group of proteins (called immunoglobulins) that show inflammation in the central nervous system.
  • High levels ofĀ immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies. People with low levels of IgG are moreĀ prone toĀ infections.
  • Other proteins resulting from the breakdown of myelin (the fatty substance that surrounds and protects nerve cells) may also be present.

Although a spinalĀ tapĀ is usedĀ inĀ diagnosing MS, it is not specific to thisĀ disease. Other tests need to be considered before a confirmed diagnosis of MS can be made.

Note:Ā Multiple Sclerosis NewsĀ TodayĀ is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.