oligoclonal
Limited Antibody Bands
Plain-language definition
Referring to oligoclonal bands - distinct antibody patterns found in cerebrospinal fluid that suggest immune activity in the CNS, supporting a diagnosis of MS.
Where this term comes up
“Diagnose inflammatory conditions (MS, NMO) - including oligoclonal bands and IgG index”
Test · Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
“Lumbar puncture for oligoclonal bands”
Condition · Internuclear Ophthalmoplegia (INO)
“Oligoclonal bands in spinal fluid: Increased risk”
Guide · Optic Neuritis and MS Risk - Understanding Your Diagnosis
- Category
- Clinical term
- Also written as
- No alternate forms listed.
Clinical terms are words clinicians use to describe symptoms, signs, risk factors, or patterns seen during evaluation.
Related glossary terms
A note on medical context
A glossary definition can explain a word, but it cannot tell you whether a symptom or test result is serious. If this term came from an article, use the full article and your clinician's guidance for context.