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Anti-NMO (Neuromyelitis Optica) Antibody / Aquaporin 4 Test

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Anti-NMO (Neuromyelitis Optica) Antibody / Aquaporin 4 Test

Short Name: Anti-NMO Antibody Test

Also known as: Aquaporin 4 Antibody Test, NMO Antibody Test, Devic's Disease Antibody Test, Anti-Aquaporin 4 Test

Anti-NMO (Neuromyelitis Optica) Antibody / Aquaporin 4 Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹6,500. Uses Immunofluorescence Assay on Serum or Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) samples. Results in Same day report if sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Immunological Test🏠 Home Collection

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Overview

The purpose of the Anti-NMO Antibody Test is to detect the presence of Aquaporin 4 antibodies, which are biomarkers for Neuromyelitis Optica. It aids in confirming diagnosis, differentiating NMO from other neurological disorders like Multiple Sclerosis, and guiding treatment decisions.

Test Code
158
Price
₹6,500
Sample Type
Serum or Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
Result Time
Same day report if sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Immunofluorescence Assay
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation such as fasting is required. Inform your doctor about any medications or health conditions.

Method: Venipuncture for blood draw; lumbar puncture for CSF

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

For blood sample, a needle is inserted into a vein to collect serum. For CSF, a lumbar puncture is performed by a healthcare professional.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site to prevent bleeding. Mild discomfort may occur, but serious risks are rare.

Timeline: Same day report if sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No fasting required. Ensure the sample is collected and shipped as per instructions to maintain stability.
2
During the Test:The test involves detecting antibodies in serum or CSF using Immunofluorescence Assay. No patient involvement during the test process.
3
After the Test:Results are communicated via online portal, email, or WhatsApp. No specific post-test care is needed.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

The purpose of the Anti-NMO Antibody Test is to detect the presence of Aquaporin 4 antibodies, which are biomarkers for Neuromyelitis Optica. It aids in confirming diagnosis, differentiating NMO from other neurological disorders like Multiple Sclerosis, and guiding treatment decisions.

How to Prepare

  • Serum: Collect 2 mL blood in an SST tube, centrifuge, and ship refrigerated or frozen.
  • CSF: Collect 1 mL in a sterile screw-capped container and ship refrigerated or frozen.
  • Label samples properly with patient details.

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"This test is crucial for diagnosing Neuromyelitis Optica, especially when symptoms mimic other neurological conditions like Multiple Sclerosis. Early detection helps in targeted treatment."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum or Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
Sample Volume2 mL serum or 1 mL CSF
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube) for serum; sterile screw-capped container for CSF
Collection MethodVenipuncture for blood draw; lumbar puncture for CSF

Sample Stability

Room Temperature
Refrigerator
Frozen

Understanding Your Results

Results are reported as positive or negative for Aquaporin 4 antibodies. A positive result supports a diagnosis of Neuromyelitis Optica, while a negative result does not entirely rule it out, especially in seronegative cases.
📊

Positive

Indicates the presence of Aquaporin 4 antibodies, consistent with Neuromyelitis Optica. Clinical correlation is necessary.

📊

Negative

No detectable antibodies. NMO is less likely, but other conditions should be considered if symptoms persist.

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

Consult a doctor immediately if you experience sudden vision loss, severe eye pain, limb weakness, numbness, or bladder/bowel issues. If the test result is positive, follow up with a neurologist or immunologist for management.

Limitations

  • False negatives can occur in early stages or with low antibody titers.
  • Results should be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings and other tests.

Risks & Considerations

  • For blood draw: minor bruising, pain, or infection at the puncture site.
  • For lumbar puncture: headache, back pain, or, rarely, infection or bleeding.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of the Anti-NMO Antibody Test in India?
The cost of the Anti-NMO Antibody Test at DNA Labs India is INR 6500, which includes home sample collection across India.
What are the symptoms of Neuromyelitis Optica (NMO)?
Symptoms include loss of vision, eye pain, weakness or paralysis in limbs, numbness or tingling, and loss of bladder or bowel control. Symptoms can appear suddenly or develop over time.
How is NMO diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves a physical examination, MRI of the brain and spinal cord, and Anti-NMO (Aquaporin 4) antibody testing. The antibody test is key for confirmation.
What sample is required for the test?
The test requires either 2 mL of serum from a blood sample or 1 mL of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected via lumbar puncture.
Is fasting required before the test?
No, fasting is not required for the Anti-NMO Antibody Test.
How long does it take to get the test reports?
Reports are typically available on the same day if the sample is received by 9 am on Tuesday or Friday. Delivery is via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Is home sample collection available for this test?
Yes, DNA Labs India offers free home sample collection for this test in numerous cities across India, including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and more.
What does a positive test result mean?
A positive result indicates the presence of Aquaporin 4 antibodies, which strongly supports a diagnosis of Neuromyelitis Optica. However, clinical correlation with symptoms and other tests is essential.
Can this test be done during pregnancy?
The test can generally be performed during pregnancy, but consult your doctor to weigh risks and benefits, especially for CSF collection.
What are the risks associated with the test?
For blood draw, risks include minor bruising or pain. For lumbar puncture, risks include headache or back pain. Serious complications are rare.
How accurate is the Anti-NMO Antibody Test?
The test uses Immunofluorescence Assay, which is highly sensitive and specific for NMO. However, no test is 100% accurate; results should be interpreted in clinical context.
Who should consider taking this test?
Individuals with symptoms suggestive of NMO, such as sudden vision loss or limb weakness, or those with MRI findings indicating optic nerve or spinal cord issues, should consider this test.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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