Ulta Lab Tests

Blood Tests for Neurological Disorders

Blood tests for neurological disorders help uncover medical causes of nerve and brain symptoms—such as numbness, weakness, memory loss, seizures, headache, or balance problems. Many neurologic conditions begin silently or mimic one another. Lab testing offers a proactive, step-by-step screen for reversible or systemic causes (vitamin and thyroid problems, autoimmunity, infection, toxins, metabolic issues) and provides context alongside imaging and specialist evaluation.

A practical approach starts with general health labs (CBC/CMP), glucose/A1c, thyroid (TSH), and vitamin B12 with methylmalonic acid (MMA), then adds targeted panels for neuropathy, neuroinflammation, neuromuscular weakness, dementia, seizures, stroke risk, or toxic exposures. Blood tests support screening, diagnosis, and monitoring, but they do not replace a clinician’s exam, MRI/CT, EEG/EMG, or—when indicated—lumbar puncture.

Signs, Symptoms & Related Situations

  • Sensory & movement: numbness/tingling, burning feet, shooting pain, weakness, muscle cramps, tremor, gait imbalance

  • Thinking & behavior: memory loss, word-finding trouble, confusion, personality or sleep changes

  • Headache & vision: new or severe headaches, visual loss/double vision, jaw pain with chewing (giant-cell arteritis concern)

  • Seizure/episodes: loss of awareness, staring spells, convulsions, sudden collapse

  • Autonomic & systemic: dizziness on standing, palpitations, heat/cold intolerance, unexplained weight change, fatigue

  • Exposure & risks: recent infection or tick bite, new medication/supplement use, alcohol or occupational chemicals, diabetes/metabolic syndrome, autoimmune or clotting history, family neurologic disease

  • Urgent care now: stroke-like symptoms (face/arm/leg weakness, speech/vision loss), high fever with severe headache/stiff neck, rapidly worsening weakness, or new seizures

Symptoms require evaluation by a qualified clinician.

Why These Tests Matter

What testing can do

  • Screen reversible causes of neurologic symptoms (B12 deficiency, thyroid disease, infections, toxins)

  • Differentiate patterns (autoimmune, inflammatory, metabolic, vascular) and prioritize imaging or referrals

  • Monitor trends in chronic conditions and treatment safety

What testing cannot do

  • Diagnose MS, epilepsy, or stroke on blood tests alone—specialist assessment and imaging/EEG/CSF are often required

  • Replace a neurologic exam or provide treatment/dosing advice

  • Detect every cause; some disorders need genetic, CSF, or tissue studies

What These Tests Measure (at a glance)

  • General screen: CBC/CMP (anemia, infection, electrolytes, liver/kidney), A1c/fasting glucose (diabetes), TSH ± Free T4 (thyroid).

  • Vitamin & nutrition: Vitamin B12 with MMA (functional deficiency), folate, vitamin D, thiamine (B1), vitamin B6 (both low and high can cause neuropathy), vitamin?E.

  • Inflammation & autoimmunity: ESR/CRP; ANA with ENA/dsDNA, SSA/SSB, RF/anti-CCP; ANCA (PR3/MPO); complements C3/C4; cryoglobulins.

  • Neuro-specific autoantibodies (serum):

    • Myasthenia gravis: AChR binding/blocking, MuSK

    • Demyelinating disorders: AQP4-IgG (NMOSD), MOG-IgG

    • Peripheral neuropathies: anti-ganglioside (GM1, GD1a, GQ1b), anti-MAG

    • Autoimmune encephalitis (select serum markers): NMDA-R, LGI1, CASPR2, GAD65 (often paired with CSF testing per clinician)

  • Infections with neurologic impact (as indicated): HIV 4th-generation, syphilis (RPR/treponemal), Lyme two-tier testing, hepatitis B/C, TB context when relevant.

  • Vascular & stroke risk: lipid panel ± ApoB/Lp(a), homocysteine, antiphospholipid antibodies (cardiolipin, β2-glycoprotein I, lupus anticoagulant); clinician-directed thrombophilia studies in selected cases.

  • Toxins & metals (exposure-based): lead, mercury, arsenic; copper/ceruloplasmin (Wilson disease context); ammonia (encephalopathy).

  • Neuromuscular muscle injury: CK, aldolase.

  • Celiac-neurology link: tTG-IgA with total IgA (or deamidated gliadin) for gluten-related ataxia/neuropathy.

  • Emerging dementia biomarkers (where available): plasma p-tau, Aβ42/40 ratio, neurofilament light (NfL)—to be used with specialist evaluation, not alone.

Quick Build Guide

Clinical goal Start with Add if needed
General neurologic screen CBC • CMP • TSH • A1c • B12 + MMA • ESR/CRP Vitamin D • Folate • B1/B6
Peripheral neuropathy A1c • B12 + MMA • TSH • CMP SPEP/IFE (clinician-directed), anti-ganglioside/anti-MAG, B6/B1, heavy metals, tTG-IgA
Weakness/neuromuscular junction CK • CMP • TSH AChR Ab • MuSK Ab, ± thyroid antibodies, clinician-directed EMG/NCS
Demyelinating/optic neuritis ESR/CRP • ANA AQP4-IgG • MOG-IgG, consider vitamin D, clinician imaging/CSF
Cognitive change/dementia CBC • CMP • TSH • B12 + MMA • Folate Syphilis/HIV screen; p-tau/Aβ42-40/NfL (where available)
Seizure/altered mental status Glucose • Sodium • Calcium • Magnesium • LFTs Autoimmune encephalitis Ab (serum), toxicology as indicated
Young stroke/TIA work-up Lipids • A1c • Homocysteine Antiphospholipid Ab, clinician-directed thrombophiliatests
Exposure-related symptoms CMP • CBC Lead • Mercury • Arsenic • Ammonia • Copper/Ceruloplasmin

How the Testing Process Works

  1. Choose a starting set based on your symptoms (see Quick Build Guide).

  2. Provide samples: standard blood draw; fasting only if your order includes fasting lipids/glucose.

  3. Add targeted tests guided by results and history (autoimmune, infection, toxin, neuromuscular).

  4. Combine with clinical tools: results are interpreted with your exam, MRI/CT, EEG/EMG, or CSF when needed.

  5. Monitor trends: repeat key markers to confirm abnormalities or track response and safety.

Interpreting Results (General Guidance)

  • Low B12 with elevated MMA: supports functional B12 deficiency and neuropathy risk.

  • Abnormal TSH/Free T4: thyroid disease can mimic cognitive or neuromuscular symptoms.

  • High ESR/CRP with systemic symptoms: consider inflammatory/autoimmune causes; escalate to specialist.

  • Positive neuro-autoantibodies (AChR, AQP4, MOG, NMDA-R, etc.): suggest immune-mediated disease—confirm with specialist testing and imaging.

  • Positive infections (HIV, syphilis, Lyme): require clinician review; some results need confirmatory testing.

  • Elevated heavy metals or ammonia: indicate exposure or metabolic causes—address promptly with your clinician.

  • Dementia biomarkers: supportive, not diagnostic alone; use with cognitive testing and imaging.
    Always interpret results with a qualified healthcare professional; patterns and trends matter more than a single value.

Choosing Panels vs. Individual Tests

  • Foundational neurology screen: CBC • CMP • TSH • A1c • B12 + MMA • ESR/CRP

  • Targeted panels: Neuropathy, Autoimmune/Neuroinflammation, Infection, Toxin/Heavy Metals, Cognitive Health, Stroke Risk

  • Add individual markers when a panel flags a direction (e.g., AChR Ab, AQP4-IgG, antiphospholipid Ab)

FAQs

Can blood tests diagnose multiple sclerosis (MS)?
No. Blood tests rule out mimics and support the work-up, but MRI and sometimes CSF are key for MS.

What labs help with numbness and tingling?
Start with A1c, B12 + MMA, TSH, and CMP; add autoantibodies, metals, and B-vitamins based on history.

Are there blood tests for Alzheimer’s disease?
Emerging biomarkers (p-tau, Aβ42/40, NfL) exist where available, but they’re not stand-alone diagnoses and should be used with specialist guidance.

Do I need to fast?
Only for fasting glucose or lipid testing. Most neuro-related labs don’t require fasting.

Can infections cause neurologic symptoms?
Yes. HIV, syphilis, Lyme and others can affect the nervous system; blood tests help screen and confirm.

Why both B12 and MMA?
MMA rises when tissues are short on B12, even with “normal” B12—useful for early deficiency.

When should I see a neurologist?
If symptoms are progressive, focal, or disabling, or labs are clearly abnormal, seek specialist evaluation.

Related Categories & Key Tests

  • Neurological Disorders Tests Hub

  • All Cognitive Health Tests • Brain Health • Alzheimer’s Disease • Stroke Tests • Heavy Metal Tests • Infectious Disease (Lyme, HIV, Syphilis) • Autoimmune Panels

  • Key Tests: CBC • CMP • A1c • TSH/Free T4 • Vitamin B12 + MMA • Folate • Vitamin D • B1 • B6 • ESR/CRP • ANA/ENA/dsDNA • SSA/SSB • RF/anti-CCP • ANCA • C3/C4 • Cryoglobulins • AChR Ab • MuSK Ab • AQP4-IgG • MOG-IgG • Anti-ganglioside (GM1, GD1a, GQ1b) • Anti-MAG • GAD65 • NMDA-R • LGI1 • CASPR2 • HIV 4th-gen • Syphilis (RPR/treponemal) • Lyme two-tier • Lipid panel ± ApoB/Lp(a) • Antiphospholipid Ab • Homocysteine • Lead • Mercury • Arsenic • Copper/Ceruloplasmin • Ammonia • CK • Aldolase • tTG-IgA + total IgA • p-tau • Aβ42/40 • NfL

References

  • American Academy of Neurology — Practice parameters for evaluation of peripheral neuropathy and cognitive impairment.
  • NINDS (NIH) — Neurological diagnostic testing overviews.
  • Myasthenia Gravis Foundation of America — Antibody testing guidance.
  • National Multiple Sclerosis Society — Diagnostic criteria and mimics.
  • Alzheimer’s Association — 2024–2025 updates on blood biomarkers for dementia.
  • Infectious Diseases Society of America — Lyme disease and neurosyphilis testing guidance.
  • American Heart Association/American Stroke Association — Primary prevention and risk assessment.
  • Clinical reviews on neuro-autoantibodies, heavy metals, and vitamin-related neuropathies.

Available Tests & Panels

Your Blood Tests for Neurological Disorders menu is pre-populated in the Ulta Lab Tests system. Use filters to start with a foundational neurology screen, then add neuropathy, autoimmune, infection, toxin, cognitive, or stroke-riskpanels as your situation warrants. Follow collection instructions and review results with your clinician to prioritize imaging and next steps.

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Blood
Blood Draw
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 The Anemia Health - Advanced panel is a thorough diagnostic tool designed to evaluate various factors that contribute to anemia. This panel extends beyond basic anemia screening by including tests that assess inflammation, iron metabolism, red blood cell production, and potential hereditary conditions. It comprises C-Reactive Protein, Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Ferritin, Folate Serum, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, Reticulocyte Count, Sickle Cell Screen, and Transferrin.
Blood
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 The Anemia Health - Basic panel is a foundational diagnostic tool designed to evaluate the key components necessary for diagnosing anemia and understanding its potential causes. This panel includes a Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, and Transferrin tests. These tests provide crucial insights into the quantity and quality of red blood cells, iron availability, and iron transport capabilities within the body.
Blood
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 The Anemia Health - Basic Plus panel enhances the foundational assessment of anemia by incorporating additional tests that provide insights into inflammation and iron storage, alongside the essential evaluations of blood components and iron metabolism. This panel includes C-Reactive Protein, Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Ferritin, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, and Transferrin tests.
Blood
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 The Anemia Health - Comprehensive panel is the most extensive diagnostic suite offered for evaluating anemia and its underlying causes. This panel combines a wide array of tests, including markers for inflammation, iron metabolism, vitamin levels, and red blood cell production, to provide a thorough assessment of factors contributing to anemia. It includes C-Reactive Protein, Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets, Comprehensive Metabolic Panel, Erythropoietin, Fecal Globin by Immunochemistry, Ferritin, Folate Serum, Homocysteine, Iron and Total Iron Binding Capacity, Reticulocyte Count, Sickle Cell Screen, Transferrin, and Vitamin B12.
Blood, Varied
Blood Draw, Phlebotomist
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The C-Reactive Protein (CRP) Test measures CRP levels in blood to detect inflammation in the body. Elevated CRP may indicate infections, autoimmune disorders, or chronic diseases such as arthritis, cardiovascular disease, or inflammatory bowel disease. Doctors use this test to assess acute illness, monitor treatment response, and evaluate risk for heart disease. The CRP test provides key insight into inflammation, immune health, and overall wellness.

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Blood Draw
Also Known As: CRP Test, Inflammation Test
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The Carnitine Test measures carnitine levels in the blood to evaluate fatty acid metabolism and energy production. Abnormal results may indicate primary or secondary carnitine deficiency, often linked to metabolic disorders, malnutrition, or certain medications. Doctors use this test to investigate muscle weakness, hypoglycemia, or developmental delays and to monitor patients receiving treatment for metabolic or mitochondrial disease.

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The Complete Blood Count with Differential and Platelets Test is a comprehensive blood test that checks red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, hematocrit, and platelets. The differential analyzes types of white blood cells to detect infections, anemia, clotting abnormalities, immune conditions, and certain cancers. This essential test is often ordered for routine health exams, diagnosis, and monitoring treatment progress.

Blood
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Also Known As: CBC Test, CBC with Differential and Platelets Test, CBC w/Diff and Platelets Test, Full Blood Count Test, Complete Blood Count Test
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The Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP) Test measures 21 markers to assess metabolic health, liver and kidney function, and electrolyte balance. It includes glucose, calcium, sodium, potassium, chloride, CO2, albumin, globulin, A/G ratio, total protein, bilirubin, ALP, AST, ALT, BUN, creatinine, BUN/creatinine ratio, and eGFR. The CMP helps detect diabetes, liver or kidney disease, and supports routine screening and chronic condition monitoring.

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Also Known As: CMP Test, Chemistry Panel Test, Chem Test, Chem 21 Test, Chem 14 Test 
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The Glucose Test measures blood sugar levels to evaluate energy metabolism and screen for diabetes or prediabetes. Abnormal glucose may indicate hyperglycemia, hypoglycemia, or metabolic disorders. Doctors use this test during routine exams, to investigate symptoms like fatigue, excessive thirst, or frequent urination, and to monitor treatment for diabetes. It provides essential insight into how the body regulates blood sugar and overall metabolic health.

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Also Known As: Fasting Glucose Test, Fasting Blood Sugar Test
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The Magnesium Micronutrient RBC Test measures magnesium levels within red blood cells, providing a more accurate assessment of long-term magnesium status than serum tests. Magnesium is vital for muscle and nerve function, energy production, bone strength, and heart health. This test helps detect deficiencies or imbalances from poor diet, absorption issues, or medical conditions, supporting overall wellness.

Patient must be 18 years of age or older.
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Magnesium Red Bood Cell Test, Mg Test, Mag Test

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The Magnesium RBC Test measures magnesium inside red blood cells, providing a more accurate assessment of magnesium status than serum tests. Magnesium is vital for energy production, muscle and nerve function, heart rhythm, and bone health. Low levels may cause fatigue, cramps, arrhythmias, or weakness, while high levels may signal kidney issues. Doctors order this test to detect deficiency, monitor therapy, and evaluate overall metabolic and nutritional health.

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Also Known As: Magnesium Red Bood Cell Test, Mg Test, Mag Test
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The Methylmalonic Acid (MMA) Blood Test measures MMA levels in the bloodstream to help detect vitamin B12 deficiency, often before anemia or neurological symptoms appear. Elevated results may indicate poor B12 absorption, pernicious anemia, or metabolic disorders. Doctors order this test when patients present with fatigue, neuropathy, or unexplained anemia. Results provide early insight into nutritional status, metabolic health, and treatment needs.

Blood
Blood Draw
Also Known As: MMA Test
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The Methylmalonic Acid Urine Test measures MMA levels to help detect vitamin B12 deficiency and assess metabolic health. Elevated MMA indicates impaired B12-dependent enzyme function, which may lead to anemia or nervous system damage. Doctors order this test to investigate unexplained fatigue, weakness, or neurological symptoms. It is often used with serum B12 testing for early, accurate detection and monitoring of deficiency.

Urine
Urine Collection
Also Known As: MMA Urine Test
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The Myasthenia Gravis Panel 1 Test evaluates AChR Binding, AChR Modulating, and MuSK autoantibodies to detect autoimmune attack on neuromuscular synapses. Presence of any of these antibodies supports diagnosis of myasthenia gravis and helps distinguish between canonical or MuSK-positive forms. This panel provides insight into disease subtype, severity, and immune activity affecting neuromuscular function.

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Myasthenia Gravis Panel 2 measures acetylcholine receptor (AChR) binding, blocking, and modulating antibodies to detect autoimmune attack on neuromuscular junctions. Nearly 80% of generalized MG patients have detectable AChR antibodies. The panel aids in diagnosing muscle weakness, fatigability, differentiating MG subtypes, and guiding treatment decisions in neuromuscular autoimmune disease settings.

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The Myelin IgG Antibody Test detects antibodies targeting myelin, the protective sheath around nerves. Elevated levels may indicate autoimmune demyelinating disorders such as multiple sclerosis, neuromyelitis optica, or related inflammatory neuropathies. This test supports diagnosis, evaluation of neurological symptoms, and differentiation of demyelinating diseases that affect the central nervous system.

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The Myelin Associated Glycoprotein (MAG) SGPG IgM Antibody Test detects antibodies against MAG and sulfated glucuronyl paragloboside (SGPG), markers linked to demyelinating neuropathies. Elevated IgM antibodies may indicate autoimmune neurological disorders, including peripheral neuropathy or chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy. This test supports diagnosis, monitoring, and evaluation of immune-mediated nerve damage.

Blood
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Also Known As: MAG SGPG Antibody Test
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Urine
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