Test Overview
Clinical Utility
Many cases of Neuromyelitis Optica-spectrum disorders (NMOSD) are misdiagnosed as Multiple Sclerosis. As correct diagnosis is critical for prognosis, optimal treatment and prediction of relapse, initial testing for both Aquaporin 4 (AQP4) Antibodies and Myelin-Oligodendrocyte Glycoprotein (MOG) Antibodies is strongly recommended for new cases of NMOSD – see separate test listings. AQP4 antibodies are detected in about 80% of patients with NMO. Of these seronegative AQP-4 cases 7% will harbor MOG antibodies. Patients very rarely harbour both antibodies.
Method
Cell-based immunofluorescence assay (IFA)
Result Included
Aquaporin 4 Antibodies
Aliases/Synonyms
Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO) Antibodies; Anti-NMO; Anti-Aquaporin 4; AQP4 Antibody
Specimen
Specimen Type
SerumVolume
Sample Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Collection & Handling
Handling Information
Separate as soon as possible. Store and send frozen.
Stability
| Ambient | Refrigerated | Frozen |
|---|---|---|
| 6 hours | 14 days | 60 days |
Performance & Interpretation
Turnaround Time
12 days
Results
-
Aquaporin 4 AntibodiesNegative
Comment
Results of 1+ to 4+ indicate the presence of this autoantibody in increasing titers
Referral Location
Canada
Interface & Setup
HL7 Interface Codes
| Order Code | Result Name | Result Codes | Units |
|---|---|---|---|
| AQP4 S | Anti Aquaporin 4 (NMO) | 62782 |
Test Version
Last Updated
2019-12-24