Test ID GD65C Glutamic Acid Decarboxylase (GAD65) Antibody Assay, Spinal Fluid
Ordering Guidance
This test should not be requested in patients who have recently received radioisotopes, therapeutically or diagnostically, because of potential assay interference. The specific waiting period before specimen collection will depend on the isotope administered, the dose given, and the clearance rate in the individual patient. Specimens will be screened for radioactivity prior to analysis. Radioactive specimens received in the laboratory will be held one week and assayed if sufficiently decayed or canceled if radioactivity remains.
Specimen Required
Container/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 1.5 mL
Collection Instructions: Submit specimen from collection vial 2.
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Neurology Specialty Testing Client Test Request (T732) with the specimen.
Secondary ID
84221Useful For
Possible use in evaluating patients with autoimmune encephalitis, stiff-person syndrome, autoimmune ataxia, autoimmune epilepsy, and other acquired central nervous system disorders affecting gabaminergic neurotransmission
Method Name
Radioimmunoassay (RIA)
Reporting Name
GAD65 Ab Assay, CSFSpecimen Type
CSFSpecimen Minimum Volume
1 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time | |
---|---|---|---|
CSF | Refrigerated (preferred) | 28 days | |
Frozen | 28 days | ||
Ambient | 72 hours |
Clinical Information
Glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) is a neuronal enzyme involved in the synthesis of the neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Serum antibodies directed against the 65-kDa isoform of GAD (GAD65) are detected in heightened frequency in a variety of autoimmune neurologic disorders, including autoimmune encephalitis, stiff-person (Moersch-Woltman) syndrome, autoimmune ataxia, and autoimmune epilepsy.
Reference Values
≤0.02 nmol/L
Reference values apply to all ages.
Cautions
Clinical utility of this test remains to be determined.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Sunday
Report Available
3 to 6 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
86341