The Purkinje cell antibody (PCA) test is a vital diagnostic tool used to detect specific autoantibodies in the serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients, aiding in the diagnosis of paraneoplastic neurological disorders (PNDs). These disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system in response to cancer, often linked to ovarian, breast, and small-cell lung carcinomas. The test identifies two main types of autoantibodies: PCA-1 (anti-Yo), associated with gynecologic cancers and cerebellar degeneration, and PCA-2, linked to small-cell lung carcinoma. By detecting these autoantibodies, the PCA test helps uncover underlying malignancies that might not be evident through standard diagnostic methods. This early detection is crucial for managing neurological symptoms and initiating appropriate cancer treatment. The test employs indirect immunofluorescence assays, ensuring accurate identification of autoantibodies, and provides essential insights into the patient's immune response, guiding further clinical investigations and interventions.
The Purkinje cell antibody (PCA) test is a vital diagnostic tool used to detect specific autoantibodies in the serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of patients, aiding in the diagnosis of paraneoplastic neurological disorders (PNDs). These disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks the nervous system in response to cancer, often linked to ovarian, breast, and small-cell lung carcinomas. The test identifies two main types of autoantibodies: PCA-1 (anti-Yo), associated with gynecologic cancers and cerebellar degeneration, and PCA-2, linked to small-cell lung carcinoma. By detecting these autoantibodies, the PCA test helps uncover underlying malignancies that might not be evident through standard diagnostic methods. This early detection is crucial for managing neurological symptoms and initiating appropriate cancer treatment. The test employs indirect immunofluorescence assays, ensuring accurate identification of autoantibodies, and provides essential insights into the patient's immune response, guiding further clinical investigations and interventions.
The lowest price from the last 30 days: £109
Awaiting result:
14 days
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Blood
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The Purkinje cell antibody (PCA) test is essential for diagnosing paraneoplastic neurological disorders (PNDs) by detecting PCA-1 and PCA-2 autoantibodies. These antibodies are linked to cancers like ovarian, breast, and small-cell lung carcinomas. Key objectives include:
- Diagnosis: Identify PNDs by detecting PCA-1 (anti-Yo) and PCA-2 autoantibodies.
- Cancer Detection: Reveal underlying malignancies not visible through standard imaging.
- Clinical Management: Guide treatment decisions for neurological symptoms and associated cancers.
- Specimen Handling: Ensure proper collection and storage of serum and CSF samples for accurate results.
The Purkinje cell antibody (PCA) test is essential for diagnosing paraneoplastic neurological disorders (PNDs). It identifies autoantibodies, PCA-1 and PCA-2, linked to cancers like ovarian, breast, and small-cell lung carcinomas. Key points include:
- PCA-1 (Anti-Yo): Predominantly in women, associated with gynecologic cancers and cerebellar ataxia.
- PCA-2: Linked to small-cell lung carcinoma, indicating neurological autoimmunity.
Testing involves:
- Specimen Collection: Serum and CSF samples.
- Methodology: Indirect immunofluorescence assays.
The test aids in detecting underlying malignancies, crucial for timely cancer treatment and managing neurological symptoms.
Understanding test results for the Purkinje cell antibody (PCA) test is crucial for diagnosing paraneoplastic neurological disorders (PNDs). Here's a brief overview:
- Purpose: Identifies autoantibodies linked to neurological disorders triggered by cancers like ovarian, breast, and small-cell lung carcinomas.
- Types: PCA-1 (anti-Yo) and PCA-2.
- Clinical Significance: Presence of PCA-1 or PCA-2 suggests an immune response to specific cancers.
- Diagnostic Steps:
1. Initial screening with serum or CSF samples.
2. Reflex testing for specific autoantibody type.
3. Interpretation in context of symptoms and cancer risk factors.
The lowest price from the last 30 days: £109
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