Albuminmsmtcsf
This test measures the level of albumin in the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord to help assess the integrity of the blood-brain barrier.
{"Measures albumin protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)","Helps evaluate blood-brain barrier function","Used to diagnose and monitor neurological conditions","Elevated levels may indicate infection, inflammation, or nerve damage","Sample is collected via lumbar puncture (spinal tap)"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109920-9
- Short code
- ALB-CSF
- Synonyms
- Albumin Msmt CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile polypropylene tube for CSF collection
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 0
- Ref high
- 35
- Critical range
- 1.5 not specified – —
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- ≥ 0 years
- Method
- Immunonephelometry or Bromocresol Green (BCG) colorimetric method
- CPT
- 82040
- SNOMED
- 258707004
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of CSF minimum
- Stability
- Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 7 days. Frozen (-20°C or below): up to 3 months. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Albumin test measures the amount of albumin, a protein produced by the liver, in the fluid that surrounds and protects your brain and spinal cord. This fluid is called cerebrospinal fluid or CSF.
Albumin normally enters the CSF from the blood through a protective barrier called the blood-brain barrier. When this barrier is damaged or compromised, more albumin can leak into the CSF, causing elevated levels that can be detected through this test.
How is the test performed?
A healthcare provider collects a sample of cerebrospinal fluid through a procedure called a lumbar puncture, commonly known as a spinal tap. During this procedure, a thin needle is inserted into the lower back to withdraw a small amount of CSF from the space around the spinal cord. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
Why might I need this test?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms of a neurological condition, such as headaches, numbness, weakness, or confusion. It helps determine if there is any disruption in the blood-brain barrier, which can occur with various neurological diseases.
Reference range
0-35 mg/dLnot specified
No fasting or special prep; obtained via lumbar puncture (avoid traumatic tap)
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
Is the lumbar puncture procedure painful?
How long does it take to get results?
Are there any risks associated with this test?
Do I need to fast before this test?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy