1mehistcsfscnc
A specialized test measuring 1-methylhistidine levels in cerebrospinal fluid to help evaluate neurological and metabolic conditions.
{"1-Methylhistidine is a chemical marker measured in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)","The test requires a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to collect the fluid sample","Results help doctors evaluate certain neurological and muscle metabolism disorders","Abnormal levels may indicate problems with muscle breakdown or neurological conditions","This is a specialized test not routinely performed for most medical evaluations"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26584-3
- Short code
- 1-METHCSF
- Synonyms
- 1Me-hist CSF-sCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile polypropylene container (no additives)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
- CPT
- 82131
- SNOMED
- 122465004
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL CSF
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 72 hours; Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 2 weeks. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 72–168 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The 1-Methylhistidine in CSF test measures the amount of 1-methylhistidine, a naturally occurring chemical (metabolite), in your cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is the clear, protective liquid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. 1-Methylhistidine is produced when certain proteins, particularly anserine (found in muscle tissue), are broken down in the body.
How is the sample collected?
This test requires a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, which is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture or spinal tap. During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle into the lower back to withdraw a small amount of CSF. The area is numbed first with a local anesthetic to minimize discomfort.
Why might my doctor order this test?
Your doctor may order this test to help evaluate conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, or nervous system. It may also be used to assess certain metabolic or muscular disorders. This is generally a specialized test and is not part of routine blood work or standard neurological evaluations.
Reference range
Reference range not well established; laboratory-specific interpretation required. Contact reference laboratory for assay-specific reference ranges.N/A
No special preparation required. Inform patient of lumbar puncture procedure and obtain informed consent. Advise patient to empty bladder before procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is this a common test?
Do I need to fast before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Does a lumbar puncture hurt?
What do abnormal results mean?
Sources
- 1
- 2
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy