Alpha-1 Globulin, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Electrophoresis, Mass Concentration
Measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction in cerebrospinal fluid using electrophoresis. This specialized test is primarily used in the evaluation of cerebrospinal fluid protein patterns.
["This test measures a protein fraction in cerebrospinal fluid and may help evaluate conditions that affect cerebrospinal fluid protein composition."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 2864-7
- Short code
- Alpha1 Glob CSF Elph-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Alpha1 Glob CSF Elph-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- electrophoresis
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
Alpha-1 globulin is one of the protein fractions that can be measured in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Electrophoresis separates these protein fractions so their relative or mass concentrations can be assessed.
Why might I need this test?
This test may be ordered as part of a cerebrospinal fluid evaluation, particularly when there is concern for inflammation, infection, or other conditions that can change the protein pattern of the fluid. It is usually interpreted together with other cerebrospinal fluid tests and clinical findings.
How is the test performed?
Cerebrospinal fluid is usually collected through a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap. The laboratory analyzes the fluid using electrophoresis to determine the alpha-1 globulin fraction.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow the instructions provided by your healthcare professional. A lumbar puncture is usually performed with local anesthetic, and you may need to lie still afterward to reduce the risk of a headache. Tell the clinician if you have bleeding problems, take blood-thinning medicines, or have a condition that could affect the procedure.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal alpha-1 globulin level in cerebrospinal fluid may reflect an altered protein pattern caused by inflammation, infection, bleeding, or other neurologic conditions. Results should be interpreted with the other cerebrospinal fluid findings and your symptoms, because no single result establishes a diagnosis.
Short name
CSF Alpha-1 Globulin
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine blood test?
Why is electrophoresis used?
Does an abnormal result mean I have a specific disease?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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