Dopamine in Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) – Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of dopamine, a chemical messenger (neurotransmitter), in your cerebrospinal fluid. It may be used to assess brain chemistry or diagnose conditions affecting dopamine levels.
["Dopamine in CSF helps evaluate brain function related to movement, mood, and other neurological processes."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11702-8
- Short code
- Cerebral a Middle Vmax sys DOP
- Synonyms
- Cerebral a Middle Vmax sys DOP
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- us-doppler
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unusual movement disorders, mood changes, or neurological conditions suspected to involve dopamine imbalances. It could also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like Parkinson’s disease, dopamine-related brain tumors, or other neurological disorders.
What Does This Test Involve?
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then analyzed in a lab to measure dopamine levels.
What Does a Result Mean?
Results are not typically provided as a single reference range since dopamine levels can vary based on medical conditions, age, and other factors. Your doctor will interpret the result in relation to your symptoms and overall health.
Common Reasons for Testing
This test may be used to diagnose or monitor conditions affecting dopamine production or function in the brain, such as certain neurological disorders or metabolic issues.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Dopamine in CSF plays a critical role in regulating movement, mood, and cognitive function. Abnormal levels may indicate underlying neurological conditions that require further evaluation or treatment.
Short name
CSF Dopamine
Frequently asked questions
What is cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?
How is this test different from blood dopamine tests?
Can lifestyle changes affect dopamine levels in CSF?
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