Myelin Basic Protein, CSF

MBP

Test Codes

EPIC: LAB1230067, Beaker: Myelin Basic CSF, Quest: 663

Department

Send Outs

Specimen Collection Criteria

Collect: 1.2 mL cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in a sterile collection container. (Minimum: 0.5 mL)

NOTE: CSF must be clear. CSF collection tube #4 is preferred. Submitting 4th lumbar puncture collection tube minimizes blood contamination. Do not centrifuge.

Physician Office/Draw Specimen Preparation

Maintain specimens frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below) prior to transport.

Preparation for Courier Transport

Transport: 1.2 mL cerebrospinal fluid, frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below). (Minimum: 0.5 mL)

Rejection Criteria

Specimens not collected and processed as indicated.

In-Lab Processing

Maintain specimens frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below) prior to transport.

Transport: 1.2 mL cerebrospinal fluid, frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below). (Minimum: 0.5 mL)

Storage

Specimen Stability for Testing:

Room Temperature (20-26°C or 68-78.8°F): 7 days
Refrigerated (2-8°C or 36-46°F): 14 days
Frozen (-20°C/-4°F or below): 21 days

Specimen Storage in Department Prior to Disposal:

Specimen retention time is determined by the policy of the reference laboratory. Contact the Send Outs Laboratory with any questions.

Laboratory

Sent to Quest Diagnostics, Wood Dale, IL.

Performed

Monday, Thursday, Saturday.
Results available in 3-5 days.

Reference Range

≤4.0 mcg/L          Negative
4.1-6.0 mcg/L      Weakly positive
>6.0 mcg/L           Positive

Test Methodology

Radioimmunoassay (RIA)

Clinical Utility

Myelin Basic Protein – The concentration of MBP is often increased in patients with demyelinating diseases such as multiple sclerosis and may be increased in patients with head injury, CNS trauma, tumor, stroke, and viral encephalitis.

CPT Codes

83873

Contacts

Last Updated

11/19/2025