What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing unexplained vision loss, eye pain, muscle weakness, numbness, or bladder problems that your symptoms suggest could be neuromyelitis optica (NMO) or a similar condition. It helps distinguish NMO from multiple sclerosis (MS), since the two conditions can look similar but need different management approaches. If you've had unclear neurological symptoms and want a clearer answer about the cause, this test can help.

What's included in this test?

This test measures a single, highly specific antibody in your blood that's linked to neuromyelitis optica. Checking for this antibody matters because it helps separate NMO from other conditions with similar symptoms, like MS, which is important since treatments for each differ significantly.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will be available in your account, with each value's normal range clearly explained so you understand what it means. If your result is positive, the next step is typically further evaluation to confirm the diagnosis and start the right approach for your situation, so seek medical care promptly if you have severe or worsening symptoms like vision loss or trouble walking. You can download a standard lab report from your account at any time, and if you retest in the future, the trends feature lets you track any changes over time.

How can I naturally support nervous system health?

While there's no natural remedy that treats NMO or related antibody conditions, supporting your nervous system with a balanced diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants can help overall nerve health. Regular gentle exercise, good sleep, and stress management may also support recovery and general wellbeing. These steps are supportive habits, not substitutes for addressing a positive result promptly.

When will I get my results?

Results for this test are typically ready within about 7 days of your sample being collected. You'll receive a notification once your results are posted to your secure online account, where you can view and download them.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone with recurring episodes of optic nerve inflammation, unexplained limb weakness or numbness, or bladder and bowel control issues that suggest a neurological cause should consider this test. It's especially useful if you or your prior evaluations raised the possibility of NMO or an MS-like condition needing more clarity. People already diagnosed with MS whose symptoms don't fit the typical pattern may also benefit from this check.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that suggest this test could help include sudden vision loss or eye pain, weakness or numbness in the arms or legs, and problems controlling the bladder or bowels. Some people also experience uncontrollable hiccups, nausea, or vomiting due to nerve involvement in this condition. If these symptoms come and go in episodes, that pattern is worth investigating with this test.

What does a positive result mean?

A positive result means the specific antibody linked to NMO was detected in your blood, which strongly supports a diagnosis of neuromyelitis optica rather than MS or another condition. This is an important distinction because NMO often requires a different treatment approach to prevent further nerve damage. If your result comes back positive, seek medical care promptly to discuss next steps and treatment options.

What does a negative result mean?

A negative result means this specific antibody wasn't found in your blood, which makes NMO less likely as the cause of your symptoms, though it doesn't rule it out completely in rare cases. Your symptoms may still need further investigation to identify the actual cause, especially if they are ongoing or worsening. Keep track of your symptoms and consider retesting or additional evaluation if things don't improve.

How often should I retest?

Retesting isn't usually needed on a routine schedule for this specific antibody unless your symptoms change or a first result was inconclusive. If you were previously negative but develop new or worsening neurological symptoms, retesting can help clarify what's going on. Use the trends feature in your account to keep a record if you do retest over time.

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.

How do I know which test to get?

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.

When will my lab results be available?

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.

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?

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.

Do you accept health insurance?

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.

Can I cancel my order?

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.

How can I find a lab location near me?

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.

AQP4 Antibody Test - NMO vs MS Diagnosis

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!

754-799-7833

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