How long do lumbar puncture results take?

New diagnosis and before diagnosis
1

Hi everybody! I had a MRI last year which showed 6 lesions on my brain so the doc sent me for a lumbar puncture on 9th Jan. I rang the surgery Friday (25th) and there aren’t any results through yet. I was wondering if maybe the results just go through to the neuro and not my GP? Also wondered how long the results for a lp take? My right leg is so very painful with pins, needles and intense burning, I also get burning at the front of my neck. Does anyone else get these symptoms?

2

Hi,

My results took 4 weeks to come back and my GP told me the results, mine was positive. He didn’t tell me over the phone though, I had to go and see him.

Fizzy x

3

I was told at least two weeks for the results when I had mine a few weeks ago. My results go to the neuro first and then he writes to my GP (and usually sends me a copy too, although I don’t think they all do this). It can take a while for them to get typed up though if the secretary is busy so may be worth giving them a call.

Mags xx

4

Hi, I had one in the middle of August last year. Neither I nor my GP had heard anything by 1st October. My GP told me to write to consultant and ask. I got a reply a couple of weeks later. If I hadnt of wriiten I probably wouldnt have known until my next appointment which was 15th November! It was negative which is why he probably didnt contact me.

Regards Moyna

5

Thanks very much for your replies. I phoned the surgery today but they said my results aren’t back yet. Looks like it maybe another week or so before I get them as it seems you all had a good wait too. If I hear nothing in 2 weeks I’ll phone the neuro’s secretary. Thanks again

6

Apparently it takes 10 days for the lab to test, so after that time they should be able to get the results.

7

Hi,

My LP results took about 4 weeks and they went to the Neurologist. I was told over the phone (after I chased his secretary a few times) that the result was positive of MS and then got a letter confirming the diagnosis. I then had a follow up appointment with the Neuro 2 months later. My legs are very weak (feel like jelly all the time) and I have pins & needles.

Just keep chasing the surgery for the results - I would have thought you’d have them by next week.

Sarah

8

My LP results took two months to come back. The wait was no fun! Teresa xx