Ordering Guidance

Multiple neurological phenotype-specific autoimmune/paraneoplastic evaluations are available. For more information as well as phenotype-specific testing options, see Autoimmune Neurology Test Ordering Guide.

When more than one evaluation is ordered on the same order number, the duplicate test will be canceled.

For a list of antibodies performed with each evaluation, see Autoimmune Neurology Antibody Matrix.

This test is intended to be ordered for adult patients. If this test is ordered for a patient younger than 18 years, it will be canceled and automatically reordered by the laboratory as PCDES / Pediatric Autoimmune Encephalopathy/CNS Disorder Evaluation, Serum. The pediatric autoimmune central nervous system disorders evaluation is part of an evolving approach to testing for autoimmune neurological disorders using phenotypic-specific evaluations that include multiple antibodies known for their disease association.

This test should not be requested for patients who have recently received radioisotopes, therapeutically or diagnostically, because of potential assay interference. The specific waiting period before specimen collection will depend on the isotope administered, the dose given, and the clearance rate in the individual patient. Specimens will be screened for radioactivity prior to analysis. Radioactive specimens received in the laboratory will be held for 1 week and assayed if sufficiently decayed or canceled if radioactivity remains.

Necessary Information

Provide the following information:

-Relevant clinical information

-Ordering healthcare professional's name, phone number, mailing address, and email address

Specimen Required

Patient Preparation: For optimal antibody detection, specimen collection is recommended before starting immunosuppressant medication or intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) treatment.

Supplies: Sarstedt Aliquot Tube, 5 mL (T914)

Collection Container/Tube:

Preferred: Red top

Acceptable: Serum gel

Submission Container/Tube: Plastic vial

Specimen Volume: 4 mL

Collection Instructions: Centrifuge and aliquot serum into a plastic vial.