Applications

1831 – Kappa free-light chain (kFLC) index testing for the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis (MS)

Find out about the service or technology in application 1831 and the medical condition it addresses. You can also view the application documents, the deadlines for providing consultation input, and the outcome of the application when the MSAC process is complete.

  • Status Pre-assessment
  • Type New application
  • Pre-PASC consultation Open
  • Pre-MSAC consultation Not yet started
  • Outcome Pending

Application details

Applicant

The Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia

Reason for application

New Medicare Benefits Schedule item

Service or technology in this application

Kappa free light chains (kFLC) are small pieces of protein made by immune cells that produce antibodies. The kappa free light chain index compares the amount of these proteins in the fluid around the brain and spinal cord with the amount in the blood. It also uses albumin, a common blood protein, to account for proteins that normally move from the blood into this fluid. A high index shows that more kappa free light chains are being made within the brain and spinal cord than would be expected from normal movement from the blood. This can support a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis because it is a sign of immune activity linked to the disease.

Medical condition this application addresses

Multiple sclerosis is a lifelong condition that damages nerves in the brain and spinal cord. It happens when the immune system mistakenly attacks myelin, the protective covering around nerves. This damage interrupts messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Symptoms can include problems with vision, numbness, weakness, tiredness, poor balance, difficulty walking, and changes in memory or concentration.

Application documents

Consultation survey and deadlines

We welcome input from everyone. We are especially keen to hear from those with lived experience of the health condition, service or technology the application is addressing.   

Before providing your input, please read our Privacy Notice for MSAC consultation input to ensure you are comfortable with how we will use your input.  

The following consultation deadlines apply:

  • Pre-PASC consultation deadline: Friday 6 November 2026 11:59 pm AEDT
  • Pre-MSAC consultation deadline: To be confirmed

For other ways to provide input, see how to have your say.

Find out more about consultation.

Meetings to consider this application

This application will be considered at the following meetings:

  • PASC meeting: 10 to 11 December 2026
  • ESC meeting: To be confirmed
  • MSAC meeting: To be confirmed

Find out more about our meetings.

Outcome details

The outcome of this application is pending.

More information

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