Lab testing is used in conjunction with the many other forms of diagnostic testing used for Multiple Sclerosis diagnosis and treatment. While there is no definitive blood test for MS, blood tests can rule out other conditions that cause symptoms similar to those of MS, including Lyme disease, a group of diseases known as collagen-vascular diseases, certain rare hereditary disorders, and other potential autoimmune conditions.
The UPMC Department of Neurology seeks to provide the highest quality care for neurological conditions. We use an electronic records system that allows us to quickly obtain your test results from certain diagnostic labs and imaging facilities. Whenever possible, and if your insurance network allows, we ask that your blood, urine, and other laboratory testing performed at one of the following locations:
- A UPMC hospital
- UPMC community outpatient facility
- Quest diagnostic location
Obtaining your labs studies at a UPMC or QUEST facility is requested, when possible, to avoid delays in our office receiving and reviewing results. These results will be sent directly to your electronic medical record. Labs outside UPMC or QUEST facilities will need to be faxed, sorted, and scanned into your chart prior to review by our team. You will also not be able to see the details of the lab report.
We encourage you to sign up for and use MyUPMC, where you may be able to directly view test results and communicate with us about your care.