Alpha-1 Globulin, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction
Measures the alpha-1 globulin fraction of proteins in cerebrospinal fluid using electrophoresis, usually to help evaluate neurological symptoms.
["This test shows how much of the CSF protein is in the alpha-1 globulin fraction and must be interpreted with the other protein fractions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72595-2
- Short code
- Alpha1 Glob MFr.DF CSF Elph
- Synonyms
- Alpha1 Glob MFr.DF CSF Elph
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Critical range
- 7.2 N/A – 7.6 N/A
- 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?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This test uses electrophoresis to separate CSF proteins into groups and measures the proportion, or mass fraction, belonging to the alpha-1 globulin group.
Why might I need this test?
CSF protein electrophoresis may be ordered when a patient has unexplained neurological symptoms or when inflammation, infection, bleeding, or a blood-brain barrier disorder is suspected. It is generally interpreted with other CSF findings, such as total protein, glucose, and cell counts.
How is the test performed?
A clinician obtains CSF with a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap. The laboratory then performs protein electrophoresis on the fluid to determine the percentage or concentration represented by each protein fraction, including alpha-1 globulin.
How do I prepare for the test?
There is usually no special preparation for CSF collection, but follow the instructions provided by your clinician. You may be asked to lie on your side or remain still during the procedure and should receive specific guidance about activity, hydration, and symptoms to watch for afterward.
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.
A relatively high alpha-1 globulin fraction may occur with blood entering the CSF sample, inflammation, or increased blood-brain barrier permeability. An isolated decrease is not specific to one condition. Results should be interpreted by a clinician alongside the other protein fractions, total CSF protein, and the clinical findings.
Short name
CSF Alpha-1 Globulin
Frequently asked questions
Is a lumbar puncture painful?
What symptoms can occur after a lumbar puncture?
Can this test diagnose a specific condition?
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