increase in myelin basic protein

[wiggles94]

Deciding whether to get further testing (was diagnosed CIS) and spoke to the PA at the new clinic where I would do more testing.  He said in looking over the docs notes, I am questionable for MS and further testing will help move forward and make sure we have correct diagnosis.  He told me that an increase in myelin basic protein on your spinal tap means nothing.  I guess I didn't do my research too well - that's how my first PA sold me on the idea that I Have MS and to go on DMDs.  I feel like an idiot.  I hate this process.  

Anyone know anything about myelin basic protein and what it means if it is high?

[wiggles94]

Thanks so much Lulu.  That's what I thought.  This PA totally dismissed the mbp level and said they only use o bands and IgG.  I questioned him several times to make sure I understood what he was saying.  I even said, "It doesn't show that you are having demyelination going on if it's high?"

I don't think he really answered that, but he said they don't use it to diagnose MS.  I get that....nothing is used to diagnose really - BUT wouldn't you think that if you present with lesions that may be suggestive of a demylenating disease, high MBP on spinal tap, sister with optic neuritis that has been dx CIS and symptoms that indicate ms you might look at all that and say ...HMMMM?  I also know that it can be caused by other things....which I think have all been ruled out for me.  BUT I am going to do the follow up testing to be smart about it all.  We'll see .

By the way, I notice we are the same age.  NIce to meet you and thanks for your help!