Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein electrophoresis profile
This test measures the different types of proteins found in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord) using electrophoresis, a method that separates proteins based on size and charge.
["Helps identify abnormal protein patterns that may signal conditions like multiple sclerosis or other neurological disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 107049-9
- Short code
- CD20CD19R
- Synonyms
- Cells.CD20+ NFr Spec FC
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Heparinized tube (sodium heparin or lithium heparin) preferred for flow cytometry; EDTA (lavender-top) tube acceptable; ACD (yellow-top) tube also valid. Sterile collection essential to maintain cell viability.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–99 years
- Method
- flow-cytometry
- CPT
- 86356
- SNOMED
- 115341000168100
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1 mL whole blood for peripheral blood; 1–2 mL for bone marrow; tissue/fluid specimens as collected (variable volume requirements). For low-cell-yield specimens, notify the laboratory in advance.
- Stability
- Specimen must be processed within 24–48 hours of collection when kept at room temperature (18–25°C). Refrigeration (2–8°C) extends viability up to 72 hours but may affect some surface markers. Do not freeze. Specimens >48 hours old may yield unreliable results due to cell death and marker degradation.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Protein Electrophoresis Used For?
CSF protein electrophoresis is primarily used to diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the central nervous system. It can help detect abnormal protein bands that may indicate diseases such as multiple sclerosis, meningitis, or other inflammatory or neoplastic processes in the brain and spinal cord. This test may also be used to assess the effectiveness of treatment for these conditions over time.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (also called a spinal tap). The fluid is then sent to the lab, where it undergoes electrophoresis. This process separates the proteins into different bands based on their electrical charge and size. The results are analyzed to identify any unusual patterns or concentrations of proteins.
What Does the Test Result Mean?
The test results show the distribution of proteins in the CSF, often displayed as bands on an electrophoretic pattern. Normal results typically show a baseline pattern with specific bands corresponding to albumin, globulins, and other proteins. Abnormal patterns may include increased amounts of certain proteins, such as immunoglobulin bands, which can suggest autoimmune diseases, infections, or tumors.
Common Conditions Evaluated With This Test
Conditions that may be evaluated with CSF protein electrophoresis include multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, meningitis, encephalitis, and certain types of brain tumors. It can also help determine the cause of neurological symptoms like headaches, weakness, or vision problems that may not have a clear diagnosis otherwise.
Reference range
Reference range is laboratory- and specimen-specific. For peripheral blood, the CD20+/CD19+ ratio typically falls within 0.90–1.10 in healthy adults, as mature B-cells co-express both pan-B markers. Absolute CD19+ B-cell counts: 100–500 cells/μL (peripheral blood). CD20+ cells normally constitute ≥95% of CD19+ B-cells; ratios below 0.85 or above 1.15 may suggest clonal B-cell populations or marker discordance. Pediatric and specimen-specific ranges may vary.N/A
No fasting required. Patients should be well-hydrated. Recent rituximab (anti-CD20) therapy, chemotherapy, corticosteroid use, or immunosuppressive medications may significantly alter B-cell populations and should be documented. Avoid recent vaccinations when possible, as transient B-cell activation may affect results.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Why Is This Test Important?
Short name
CSF Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are the typical reference ranges for this test?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
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