Question 1

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting the central nervous system where the immune system attacks the protective myelin covering of nerve fibers. It is caused by abnormal immune responses triggered by specific genetic variants, particularly HLA-DRB1*1501 and HLA-DQB1 alleles, combined with environmental factors. The HLA-A, B, C, DRB1 and DQ High Resolution test is the most important test for comprehensive genetic risk assessment of multiple sclerosis.

Question 2

What causes multiple sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis is caused by an abnormal immune system response where the body attacks the myelin sheath protecting nerve fibers in the brain and spinal cord. Specific genetic variants, particularly the HLA-DRB1*1501 and HLA-DQB1 alleles, significantly increase susceptibility to this autoimmune attack. Environmental factors like low vitamin D levels, smoking, certain viral infections (especially Epstein-Barr virus), and geographic location also contribute to triggering MS in genetically predisposed individuals.

Question 3

What is the best test for multiple sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

The HLA-A, B, C, DRB1 and DQ High Resolution test is the most important genetic test for multiple sclerosis risk assessment because it provides comprehensive analysis of multiple HLA markers, including the critical HLA-DRB1*1501 biomarker strongly associated with increased MS risk. For those seeking more targeted testing, the HLA DRB1,DQB1 Low Resolution test examines both HLA-DRB1 and HLA-DQB1 alleles that trigger abnormal immune responses against the central nervous system. The Interleukin 17 Serum test is essential for monitoring disease activity, as elevated IL-17 levels indicate pro-inflammatory states in MS patients. While MS diagnosis requires MRI imaging and clinical evaluation, these blood tests identify genetic predisposition and help monitor immune system activity.

Question 4

When should I get tested for multiple sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

You should get tested if you experience symptoms like vision problems, numbness or tingling in your limbs, muscle weakness, balance difficulties, or extreme fatigue that lasts for days or weeks. Testing is particularly important if you have a family history of MS, as genetic factors play a significant role in disease risk. You should also consider genetic testing if you are planning a family and want to understand your risk factors, or if you have experienced unexplained neurological symptoms that come and go. Early genetic risk assessment can help you and your healthcare provider monitor for early signs and make informed decisions about lifestyle modifications that may reduce disease progression.

Question 5

What are the symptoms of multiple sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis symptoms vary widely depending on which nerves are affected and include vision problems such as blurred or double vision, numbness or tingling in the arms, legs, or face, and muscle weakness or spasms. You might experience difficulty with coordination and balance, extreme fatigue that interferes with daily activities, and problems with bladder or bowel control. Cognitive changes like difficulty concentrating, memory problems, and trouble with problem-solving are also common. Many people experience these symptoms in episodes called relapses or flare-ups, followed by periods of partial or complete recovery.

Question 6

Who is at risk for multiple sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

People with certain genetic markers, particularly the HLA-DRB1*1501 and HLA-DQB1 alleles, have significantly higher risk of developing multiple sclerosis. Women are two to three times more likely to develop MS than men, and the condition typically appears between ages 20 and 40. Your risk increases if you have a parent or sibling with MS, if you live in temperate climates farther from the equator, if you have low vitamin D levels, if you smoke, and if you have had Epstein-Barr virus infection. People of Northern European descent have the highest rates of MS, though the condition affects people of all ethnic backgrounds.

Question 7

What happens if multiple sclerosis is left untreated?

Accepted Answer

Untreated multiple sclerosis can lead to progressive and permanent nerve damage as the immune system continues attacking the myelin sheath and underlying nerve fibers. You may experience increasing disability, including loss of mobility requiring walking aids or wheelchairs, severe muscle weakness and spasticity, vision loss, cognitive decline affecting memory and reasoning, chronic pain, and loss of bladder and bowel control. The inflammation and damage accumulate over time, potentially leading to brain atrophy and irreversible neurological deficits. Early diagnosis and treatment with disease-modifying therapies can significantly slow disease progression, reduce relapse frequency, and help maintain quality of life and independence.

Question 8

Can multiple sclerosis be diagnosed with a blood test?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis cannot be diagnosed with a blood test alone, as diagnosis requires clinical evaluation, MRI imaging showing characteristic brain and spinal cord lesions, and often cerebrospinal fluid analysis. However, blood tests play an important supporting role by identifying genetic risk factors and ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms. The HLA-A, B, C, DRB1 and DQ High Resolution test identifies genetic markers like HLA-DRB1*1501 that significantly increase MS susceptibility. Blood tests measuring IgG antibodies and inflammatory markers like Interleukin 17 help assess immune system activity in people already diagnosed with MS. These genetic and immune tests provide valuable information for risk assessment and disease monitoring when combined with imaging and clinical findings.

Question 9

How is multiple sclerosis treated?

Accepted Answer

Multiple sclerosis is treated with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) that slow disease progression and reduce relapse frequency, including injectable medications like interferons and glatiramer acetate, oral medications like fingolimod and dimethyl fumarate, and infusion therapies like natalizumab and ocrelizumab. During acute relapses, high-dose corticosteroids help reduce inflammation and speed recovery. Your doctor may prescribe symptom management medications for muscle spasms, fatigue, pain, bladder problems, and depression. Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and rehabilitation programs help maintain mobility and function. Lifestyle modifications including regular exercise, stress management, adequate sleep, maintaining healthy vitamin D levels, and avoiding smoking support overall health and may help slow disease progression.

Question 10

How can I prevent multiple sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

While you cannot completely prevent multiple sclerosis, especially if you have genetic risk factors, you can take steps to potentially reduce your risk or delay onset. Maintain adequate vitamin D levels through sensible sun exposure, diet, or supplements, as low vitamin D is strongly associated with increased MS risk. Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke exposure, as smoking significantly increases both MS risk and disease progression. Maintain a healthy weight, as obesity during adolescence is linked to higher MS risk. Consider following an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids. If you have genetic risk factors identified through HLA testing, regular monitoring and early intervention at the first signs of symptoms can help preserve function and slow disease progression.

Question 11

What can I do at home to manage multiple sclerosis?

Accepted Answer

Managing multiple sclerosis at home involves regular exercise adapted to your ability level, including swimming, yoga, and stretching to maintain strength and flexibility. Stay cool, as heat worsens MS symptoms, by using air conditioning, cooling vests, and taking cool showers. Practice stress reduction techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness, as stress can trigger relapses. Maintain a consistent sleep schedule and create a restful environment to combat fatigue. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains while limiting processed foods and saturated fats. Join MS support groups either in person or online to connect with others facing similar challenges. Track your symptoms in a journal to identify triggers and patterns, and work closely with your healthcare team to adjust treatments as needed.

Question 12

How’s this work?

Accepted Answer

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short:
            
                In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
                If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
                Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
                If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
                When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
                Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
                You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!
                If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Question 13

How do I know which test to get?

Accepted Answer

In the test options, find the test you want.
            If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option.
            Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

Question 14

When will my lab results be available?

Accepted Answer

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know.
            After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop!
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Question 15

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you.
            Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at
            support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update.
            Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you.
            There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out.
            Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Question 16

Do you accept health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Only HSA & FSA is accepted.
            Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts.
            This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Question 17

Can I cancel my order?

Accepted Answer

Yes.
            We get it – sometimes your needs change.
            As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order.
            If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.
            You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

Question 18

How can I find a lab location near me?

Accepted Answer

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached!
            You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp).
            Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym.
            If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

Multiple Sclerosis Blood Test

What is Multiple Sclerosis?

What causes multiple sclerosis?

What is the best test for multiple sclerosis?

When should I get tested for multiple sclerosis?

References

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