Cerebrospinal Fluid Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (CSF Alpha-1 Antitrypsin) Concentration
This test measures the level of alpha-1 antitrypsin, a protein found in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It may be used to assess certain inflammatory or protein-related conditions in the central nervous system.
["This test helps evaluate potential protein abnormalities in your spinal fluid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21086-4
- Short code
- ASPNIGABCSF
- Synonyms
- A niger Ab CSF Ql ID
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile, leak-proof CSF collection tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- immune-diffusion
- CPT
- 86606
- SNOMED
- 1221000175102
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of cerebrospinal fluid
- Stability
- Stable for 24 hours at 2-8°C; for extended storage, freeze at -20°C or below
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 48–72 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if they suspect conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, or other neurological disorders that involve abnormal protein levels in the CSF. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions affecting protein metabolism or immune response in the brain or spinal cord.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then sent to the lab for analysis using immunoassay methods to measure alpha-1 antitrypsin concentration.
What Does the Result Mean?
Results may indicate elevated or reduced levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin compared to expected values. Elevated levels might suggest certain inflammatory processes, while abnormal patterns could point to underlying metabolic or immune system issues. Interpretation depends on clinical context and other test results.
Common Conditions Monitored or Diagnosed With This Test
While alpha-1 antitrypsin in CSF is less commonly evaluated for standard conditions, it may be part of specialized investigations for rare genetic disorders, protein-related neurological diseases, or conditions affecting protein leakage into the CSF.
Reference range
Negative; Presence of precipitin antibodies indicates exposure to Aspergillus niger.N/A
No special patient preparation required. Inform the physician of any immunosuppressive conditions or recent antifungal therapy.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in CSF is primarily relevant in research or specialized clinical scenarios. Elevated levels may indicate acute inflammation or infection, but further testing and clinical correlation are essential. Reduced levels could suggest genetic or metabolic disorders affecting protein synthesis or transport.
Short name
CSF Alpha-1 Antitrypsin
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal CSF alpha-1 antitrypsin result mean?
How often is this test performed?
Can lifestyle changes affect CSF alpha-1 antitrypsin levels?
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