Ant-MAG Myelin Basic Protein

    • Anonymous
      January 16, 2008 at 1:32 pm

      Hey all,
      So I have been “undiagnosed”. It was originally suspected I had GBS based on EMG/NCS and slightly elevated LP. I have had two rounds of IVIG’s with improvement, but it only lasted a brief time. They started me on PE, but stopped as all my tests (including 1,001 blood tests) were “normal”. This all happened last March. I continue to have more severe symptoms than originally in the Spring.

      I recently started seeing an allergist/immunologist who has done wonders for me. He recently ran the Anti-MAG Myelin Basic Protein blood test. My IgA and IgM were both highly elevated. IgG is normal.

      No one seems to be able to explain this to me.

      I called my neuro. His nurse stated, “It is an experimental test that hasn’t been approved. Therefore, it doesn’t mean anything”.

      Anyone had this test? What does it mean? Do any neuro’s take it serious?

      Thanks!
      Becca

    • Dawn Kevies mom
      January 16, 2008 at 5:25 pm

      Try pm ing Norb, he might be able to help. Good luck!
      Dawn

    • Anonymous
      January 16, 2008 at 6:47 pm

      Hi Becca, this must be very frustrating for you. I’m no expert but I’ll try to share with you what I know. MAG (myelin associated glycoprotein) and MBP (myelin basic protein) are two different components of myelin. MAG sits between the myelin and the nerve cells while MBP is part of the myelin membrane. Either one can be attacked by autoantibodies with resulting myelin damage. Several of us here on this forum including myself have anti-MAG IgM. I know of at least two labs that perform a test for this autoantibody. I’m pretty sure it is approved by the FDA since Medicare and my supplemental insurance paid for it. A test for myelin basic protein would be a separate one, probably done at the same time. I’m not familiar with it.

      Anti-MAG IgM neuropathy is by many considered to be a variant of CIDP. It is also called PDN or paraproteinaemic demyelinating neuropathy. Myelin damage usually progresses very slowly over years and is mainly sensory. It does not respond well to IVIG, plasmapheresis or steroids. Rituxan has been used successfully in a number of cases. I finally received Rituxan treatment in October and am now waiting for results. You may want to check out the thread “CIDP and Rituxan”.

      I would suggest to get a copy of the test results from the immunologist and also ask them for the explanation rather than the neurologist’s office.

      Take care

    • Dawn Kevies mom
      January 16, 2008 at 9:10 pm

      I knew you could help Norb!!!!
      Dawn