Doctors and tests

[lpt7131]

Are there MS specialists in the central Texas area that patients have found to be great to work with.  (Wanting to find out what's going on, etc.)  

Also, if a reagent was not available to complete MS panel (blood and/or CSF), how long are samples viable?  Samples were taken December 15.  Am being told that we should know next week.  So basically, the samples have been sitting for two weeks?  Is there a typical time to receive results of LP and MS Panels?

Thanks,
LPT

[lpt7131]

Thank you all so very much for your information.  The samples were frozen.  I talked about the results under "Update."  Negative.  Now being tested for possible lucanar (sp) strokes.  But my discomfort is manageable and I feel very well.
LPT

[Sumanadevii]

I think I am fortunate that my neuro has always called us with results as soon as she receives them.  The same happened with my MRI results.  I knew the next morning and was in treatment.  There never has been a "wait" or worry.  She keeps us informed as soon as she has the information.  I do agree, that my situation is unusual.  I found a good neuro after years of search!

[lpt7131]

That's so true; I certainly should have added in time for the holidays!  It's all good, though.  I so appreciate the information.  Today was one of those days that I feel very "foggy" like if I turn my head too quickly, I'll just keep spinning.  And my lips feel buzzy and numb.  At least now I know how important it is to keep notes on what is going on...smiles!  Take care,
LPT

[Sarahsmom46]

The routine part of the CSF testing is done pretty quickly, its the o-bands that take longer in some labs.  When I had my first LP part of the testing was done by the hospital lab and when they suspected I had MS, they sent the rest of my sample to Mayo. The o-band test results came back within 3-4 days. That was in a hospital and maybe things move faster in that situation.  

But, when I had my second LP at a research facility, the results took longer.  I was told that my sample for the o-bands and IgG were too degraded and they were unable to get an accurate reading.  That sample had sat in the lab for 3 weeks. The neuro said that any longer than 3-4 weeks is detrimental to the sample.

I can imagine that your testing is probably already done and it is just the holidays that is slowing up getting results back.  You will hear something very soon. If not, call and ask your doctor about it.  

Julie

[lpt7131]

Thank you all so much! It helps to just know that; they should just say about four weeks right up front. I feel better all ready. Take care all. Happy new year...
LPT

[Lulu54]

most samples are shipped to various labs, as Alex pointed out.  It does take time to separate the o-bands in the CSF - some electrolysis procedure, from what I understand.

The samples are ok to be held for a prolonged period of time. Mine were about three weeks and were done at the MS clinic where I go, but the doctor who specialized in the tests only had so many hours in a day to work.  


I think Sumanadevii's experience is the exception and not the rule. Most all of us had a wait for test results and seeing the neurologist for those results.

as for an MSologist in your area, check on the MSconsortium website .... mscare.org and you will find the member institutions listed here -



http://mscare.org/cmsc/index.php?option=com_center_directory&Itemid=1379

be well, Lulu

[Sumanadevii]

My LP results were given to us within about three days or so of the procedure.  I have no idea why it would take longer.

[HVAC]

My LP results took six weeks. They were sent to several labs across the country including the Mayo clinic. This is standard procedure for most MS work ups.

In most areas of the country there are very few MS Specialists. There are few Neurologists who Specialize in MS in the country. In my area the ratio is 2,000 patients per MS Specialist so you pretty much go with who you can get into see. My Doctor is booked up for a year for established patients. I was supposed to see him in February for my six month check up and was told my appointment was cancelled by him and he is booked through July.

Neurologists work in months, not days. It was usually two months between tests and appointments to talk about results until I was diagnosed which took two years. I had MRIs every six months for two years, lots of blood work to rule out other conditions, VEP, EMG.SSEP. BAER, full Neuro Opthamolgy exam with a OCT, and an LP. For most of us the diagnosis takes years because Neurologists like to see changes over time.

Good luck tell us how it goes.

Alex

[RedFlame]

I have heard differences as far as time on the spinal tap.

My blood and fluid were sent to California for the tests.  I didn't know until my next apointment which was about a month away.  

Hang in there.

Red