Alpha-2 Globulin, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Electrophoresis, Mass Fraction
Measures the alpha-2 globulin fraction of proteins in cerebrospinal fluid using electrophoresis.
["This test helps evaluate the protein composition of cerebrospinal fluid, which can provide information about neurologic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 72591-1
- Short code
- Alpha2 Glob MFr.DF CSF Elph
- Synonyms
- Alpha2 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?
This laboratory test measures alpha-2 globulins, a group of proteins, in cerebrospinal fluid. Electrophoresis separates the fluid's proteins into fractions so the alpha-2 fraction can be measured.
Why might I need this test?
Cerebrospinal fluid protein testing may be used when a clinician is evaluating symptoms that could involve the brain or spinal cord. It can help assess the pattern of proteins associated with inflammation, infection, bleeding, or other neurologic conditions.
How is the test performed?
A clinician collects cerebrospinal fluid, usually with a lumbar puncture, and sends it to the laboratory for analysis. The laboratory uses electrophoresis to separate and measure the protein fractions.
How do I prepare for the test?
Follow your clinician's instructions about the lumbar puncture. Fasting is generally not required, but you may be asked to lie still in a specific position during the procedure, and local anesthetic is usually used.
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-2 globulin result may reflect changes in the protein composition of cerebrospinal fluid, including inflammation, infection, blood contamination, or other neurologic processes. Results should be interpreted with the other CSF findings, symptoms, and examination rather than by themselves.
Short name
CSF Alpha-2 Globulin by Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What is cerebrospinal fluid?
Does this test require blood to be drawn?
Does an abnormal result confirm 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