Bilirubin, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Mass Concentration
Measures the amount of bilirubin in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. This specialized test may help evaluate jaundice or certain neurologic conditions.
["An elevated CSF bilirubin level can reflect high blood bilirubin levels or may accompany other abnormalities affecting the brain or spinal fluid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1973-7
- Short code
- Bilirub CSF-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Bilirub CSF-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 bilirubin is a laboratory measurement of bilirubin in the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of a red blood cell protein called heme.
Why might I need this test?
This test is occasionally used as part of an evaluation of jaundice, unexplained neurologic symptoms, or cerebrospinal fluid abnormalities. It is usually interpreted together with liver tests, blood bilirubin levels, and the results of other cerebrospinal fluid tests.
How is the test performed?
Cerebrospinal fluid is usually collected through a lumbar puncture, or spinal tap. A small amount of fluid is sent to the laboratory, where bilirubin is measured and reported as a mass concentration.
How do I prepare for the test?
A lumbar puncture generally requires no special laboratory preparation, but you may be asked to follow your clinician's instructions about positioning, eating, or drinking. Tell the clinician about medicines, allergies, bleeding problems, or any prior spinal surgery.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An elevated result may occur when bilirubin levels in the blood are also high, such as with impaired liver function or certain causes of hemolysis. It can also appear in some cases of central nervous system infection or inflammation. Because CSF bilirubin is affected by multiple factors, it should not be interpreted alone; your clinician will consider it with symptoms and other test results.
Short name
CSF bilirubin
Frequently asked questions
Is a spinal tap required for this test?
Does an elevated result always mean there is brain or liver disease?
Is this the same as a blood bilirubin test?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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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