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 AIDS.

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

Additionally, we ask that you use UPMC hospitals and outpatient imaging locations for your MRI scans, CAT scans, x-rays, ultrasounds, and other tests that we order. By using UPMC affiliated imaging sites, you can be sure that we will have quick access to review your results. Besides our hospital-based facilities, UPMC has freestanding imaging facilities located in Monroeville, West Mifflin, and Bethel Park. Our front desk staff can assist you with information about these locations.

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.