| Web: | mayocliniclabs.com |
|---|---|
| Email: | mcl@mayo.edu |
| Telephone: | 800-533-1710 |
| International: | +1 855-379-3115 |
| Values are valid only on day of printing | |
| Web: | mayocliniclabs.com |
|---|---|
| Email: | mcl@mayo.edu |
| Telephone: | 800-533-1710 |
| International: | +1 855-379-3115 |
| Values are valid only on day of printing | |
At the
forefront
A rapidly evolving subspecialty
Recognized as a world leader in the diagnosis and treatment of autoimmune neurologic disorders and demyelinating disease, Mayo Clinic mounts unmatched resources for uncovering novel syndromes, developing new diagnostic biomarkers and unique laboratory tests.
Autoimmune neurology is a rapidly evolving subspecialty driven by the discovery that the immune system can target virtually any structure within the central and peripheral nervous systems. These conditions manifest as disorders previously thought to be independent and unrelated.
For the spectrum of autoimmune neurological disorders, where an early and accurate diagnosis is paramount, our testing approaches to effectively diagnose and guide treatment for these patients is unparalleled.
A history of innovation and discovery
The Mayo Clinic Neuroimmunology Laboratory was the first to introduce comprehensive serological evaluations for the diagnosis of paraneoplastic neurologic autoimmune disorders, a group of disorders in which unusual neurologic signs and symptoms are the initial manifestations of cancer.
The laboratory continues to discover and clinically validate novel autoantibody profiles that inform neurological decision-making and guide the search for cancer.
Identifying the root cause can lead to a possible cure versus temporary relief. Early intervention may allow reversal of deficits in many patients and prevention of future disability. Antibody results may direct a targeted search for malignancy.
The Power of Discovery
Autoimmune neurological disorders can often be treated, sometimes with full restoration of function. However, because the symptoms mimic other conditions, autoimmune neurological disorders are frequently misdiagnosed, resulting in an irreversible loss of function.
Additional resources
Divyanshu (Div) Dubey, M.B.B.S., describes Mayo Clinic Laboratories' new diagnostic test for CIDP, or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. The new test detects two antibodies — NF155 and CNTN1 — to enhance diagnosis and guide treatment decisions. Often misdiagnosed, CIDP is treatable if detected early.
This July, Mayo Clinic’s Neuroimmunology Laboratory will showcase its revolutionary approach to autoimmune neurology testing at the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) Summer Conference: Autoimmune Neurology and Neurology Year in Review in San Francisco. During the meeting, Mayo Clinic Laboratories representatives will highlight our growing list of disease-specific tests and discuss how results can inform decision-making and improve treatment outcomes.
PACE/State of CA/State of FL - In this month’s “Virtual Lecture,” John Mills, Ph.D., provides information related to work that has been done in Mayo Clinic’s neuroimmunology laboratory which has played a central role in driving the field of autoimmune neurology. Over time it has driven an increase in testing volume, a number of different testing platforms, testing complexity, and a constant influx of novel laboratory-developed tests.
Join Mayo Clinic’s autoimmune neurology testing leaders for a live Zoom Q&A discussion as they discuss the rationale behind and benefits of Mayo Clinic Laboratories’ streamlined, phenotype-specific approach to testing for autoimmune neurological disorders.
Alicia Algeciras, Ph.D., describes Mayo Clinic Laboratories’ new blood test to detect NFLC, or neurofilament light chain protein. NFLC is a biomarker for several neurodegenerative conditions. The new assay can determine if a patient’s cognitive decline is due to a neurodegenerative condition or some other, reversible condition — while avoiding the need for more-invasive testing of cerebrospinal fluid.
