Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein concentration (mass concentration)
This test measures the amount of protein found in your cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds your brain and spinal cord. High or low levels may signal underlying health concerns.
["Protein levels in CSF can help diagnose conditions affecting your nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 60616-0
- Short code
- CDLP-AP
- Synonyms
- Cd-A Skull XR
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- N/A — radiographic imaging procedure; no specimen container required
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 60
- Ref high
- 70
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 5–80 years
- Method
- xr-measured
- CPT
- 70350
- SNOMED
- 168537006
- Specimen volume
- N/A — no biological specimen required
- Stability
- N/A — imaging study with no specimen stability concerns
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 1–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)?
CSF is a clear, watery fluid that cushions your brain and spinal cord, providing nutrients and removing waste. It also acts as a barrier against infections. Protein is a key component of CSF, but its concentration can vary based on health status and conditions like inflammation or injury.
Why Is This Test Done?
Doctors may order this test to investigate symptoms such as headaches, seizures, weakness, numbness, or neurological issues. It helps identify problems like infections, tumors, multiple sclerosis, or other conditions affecting the brain or spinal cord.
When Might You Need This Test?
You might need this test if you have symptoms like persistent headaches, vision problems, balance issues, or unexplained neurological symptoms. It’s also used during diagnostic procedures like lumbar punctures.
What to Expect During the Test
A healthcare provider will collect a small sample of CSF through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). You’ll lie on your side, and the provider will insert a needle into your lower back to draw fluid. The process is usually quick and may cause mild discomfort.
Reference range
Reference range varies by age, sex, and ethnicity; typically 60-70 mm in adults. Pediatric values are age-dependent and shorter.N/A
No special preparation required. Patient should remove all metallic objects (jewelry, hair clips, dentures, eyeglasses) from the head and neck region prior to imaging.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
CSF Protein Level
Frequently asked questions
How Does This Test Help Doctors?
How Do I Prepare for This Test?
What Are Common Results and Next Steps?
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