Oligoclonal Band Count as an Indicator of first onset presentation and Severity of Disability in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Abstract

Introduction

The predictive significance of cerebrospinal fluid oligoclonal band (OCB) counts in multiple sclerosis (MS) has been understudied. This study aims to evaluate the relationship between OCB counts and demographic measures, clinical rating scales, first onset presentation, and lesion localization.

Methods

Demographic, clinical, and radiological data were analyzed for 200 MS patients. The Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), 25-Foot Walk Test (25-FWT), Symbol Digit Modalities Test (SDMT), and Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS) were also assessed. All data were correlated with OCB count with correction for multiple comparisons using the Bonferroni method.

Results

The mean number of OCBs in the studied cohort was 4.30±2.45. After Bonferroni correction, significant correlations were found between OCB counts and EDSS scores (p = 0.032), the presence of sensory symptoms at onset (p = 0.024), and a negative correlation with optic symptoms at onset (p = 0.016). No significant associations were observed between OCB counts and performance on other motor tests (the 9-HPT, and 25-FWT), SDMT, or MS phenotypes.

Conclusion

Higher OCB counts may indicate worse disease severity and sensory system affection as the first clinical presentation. Measuring OCB numbers is critical not only for MS diagnosis but to provide quantification of disease severity and guide proper treatment plans.