CSF CXCL13: Does It Help in the Diagnosis of Lyme Neuroborreliosis?

In a cohort study, cerebrospinal fluid levels of CXCL13 were markedly elevated in those with a diagnosis of Lyme neuroborreliosis but were less predictive in those without an established diagnosis.

The diagnosis of Lyme neuroborreliosis (LNB) can be difficult. The most-used test depends on intrathecal production of Borrelia burgdorferi–specific antibodies (ItAb) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This test has limitations, including both low sensitivity early in disease and antibody persistence after appropriate antibiotic therapy. Measurement of CSF CXCL13, a chemoattractant of B lymphocytes, appears before ItAb and rapidly diminishes with therapy. However, it may be elevated in other neurologic diseases that present with CSF pleocytosis. To assess the potential role of CSF CXCL13 in diagnosing LNB, researchers compared CSF CXCL13 levels to ItAb and other markers in CSF samples obtained from patients with various neuroinflammatory ill…

Reviewing Author

Neil M. Ampel, MD

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Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

Neil M. Ampel, MD

Disclosures

Editorial BoardsUpToDate

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesCoccidioidomycosis Study Group (Past President, Secretary, Treasurer)

CSF CXCL13: Does It Help in the Diagnosis of Lyme Neuroborreliosis?

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Reviewing Author