Oligoclonal bands

Oligoclonal bands are a about two to five bands of immunoglobulins. Each band is in a protein secreted by plasma cells. They are found in spinal fluid and blood serum in some persons. They are discovered by testing the fluids on a gel which reveals the bands.

The presence of Oligoclonal bands in spinal fluid often indicates a disease of the Central Nervous System if the bands are not also found in blood serum, however the presence of one band, called monoclonal[?], is not serious and may be normal. The bands usually disappear from the spinal fluid as a person recovers from the neurological disease.

Approximately 90% of all patients with Multiple Sclerosis have these bands. For those who possibly have the disease, these bands are an important indicator. The bands are permanent in these patients.