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Understanding Your Laboratory Test: What the Test Measures, How the Sample Is Collected, and Why Your Doctor May Recommend It

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures adenosine levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to help evaluate certain neurological conditions.

Quick summary

{"Adenosine is a natural chemical that helps regulate brain activity","This test requires a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to collect fluid","It may help diagnose or monitor specific neurological disorders","Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in context","The test is typically ordered by neurologists for specialized evaluation"}

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
75136-2
Short code
ADEN-CSF
Synonyms
ADO CSF-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile polypropylene cryovial or sterile CSF collection tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0.01
Ref high
0.5
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) with ultraviolet detection or mass spectrometry
CPT
80378
SNOMED
122598009
Specimen volume
1-2 mL of CSF
Stability
Store at 2-8°C if analysis within 24 hours. For longer storage, freeze at -70°C. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

What is this test and what does it look for in my body?

The CSF Adenosine test measures the amount of adenosine, a naturally occurring nucleoside, in your cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is the clear, protective liquid that surrounds your brain and spinal cord. Adenosine is a chemical messenger that plays important roles in energy transfer and cellular signaling in the nervous system.

How is the sample for this test collected from my body?

This test requires a procedure called a lumbar puncture, commonly known as a spinal tap. During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle into the lower back to collect a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid. The area is numbed with local anesthetic to minimize discomfort. The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes, and you may be asked to lie flat for a short time afterward to reduce the risk of headache.

Why might my doctor order this test for me?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to help evaluate certain neurological conditions. Adenosine levels in CSF can be affected by various brain and nervous system disorders. This test is not commonly performed and is typically ordered by neurologists or specialists when specific neurological conditions are suspected or need to be monitored.

How should I prepare before my sample is collected?

No special preparation is typically needed for this test. However, you should inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking, especially blood thinners, as these may affect the lumbar puncture procedure. Your provider will give you specific instructions before the procedure.

Reference range

Reference ranges for adenosine in CSF are not well-established. Consult laboratory-specific reference ranges. Typical reported values are in the range of 0.01-0.5 micromol/L.N/A

Specimen: csf

No specific patient preparation required. Standard lumbar puncture precautions apply. Inform patient of procedure risks including post-lumbar puncture headache.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is the lumbar puncture painful?
The procedure is performed with local anesthetic, so you should feel minimal pain during the insertion of the needle. You may feel some pressure or discomfort in your back. After the procedure, some people experience a mild headache, which can usually be managed with rest and fluids.
How long does it take to get results?
This is a specialized test that is not performed at all laboratories. Results may take several days to a week or longer, depending on where the sample is sent for analysis. Your healthcare provider will inform you when results are available.
What do abnormal results mean?
Abnormal adenosine levels in CSF can have various meanings depending on your specific clinical situation. Your neurologist or specialist will interpret the results in the context of your symptoms, other test findings, and overall health condition. Do not worry if you have questions about your results—discuss them with your healthcare provider who ordered the test.
Are there any risks from the lumbar puncture?
The most common side effect is a headache that usually goes away within a few days. Rare complications include bleeding, infection, or back pain. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience severe headache, fever, or unusual symptoms after the procedure.
  1. 1
    Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap) - Mayo ClinicSource
  2. 2
    Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis - MedlinePlusSource
  3. 3
    Adenosine - ScienceDirect TopicsSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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