Quantitative measurement of **ciprofloxacin concentration** in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
This test checks how much of the antibiotic ciprofloxacin is present in your spinal fluid, which may help assess whether it’s working to treat infections like meningitis.
["Helps monitor antibiotic effectiveness in spinal fluid infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 103653-2
- Short code
- Ciprofloxacin Susc Islt.mening
- Synonyms
- Ciprofloxacin Susc Islt.mening
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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
Your doctor may order this test to help diagnose a medical condition, check how well an organ is working, or monitor a treatment you are already receiving. Understanding why the test is needed can help you feel more prepared and more involved in your own care decisions.
Your doctor may order this test if you have an infection in the brain or spinal cord (such as meningitis) and are receiving ciprofloxacin treatment. It helps ensure the antibiotic is reaching the right amount in your spinal fluid to fight the infection effectively.
How this test is performed depends on the type of test your doctor has ordered. In general, a trained member of your care team will explain each step before starting, and the procedure is usually quick. Tell the staff right away if you feel pain, dizziness, or any discomfort during the test.
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The sample is then analyzed in a lab to measure ciprofloxacin levels.
Before the test, your provider will review your medical history, current medications, and any allergies you may have. You will receive specific instructions, such as when to arrive, what to wear, and whether you should pause certain medicines. Following these directions carefully helps make sure your results are as accurate as possible.
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications for a short time. Inform your doctor about any medications you’re taking, including antibiotics.
Your results show whether your values fall within the normal range for this test. A normal result usually means there is no sign of the condition being tested for, while an abnormal result does not always mean you are ill and may simply call for additional testing. Your doctor will explain what your specific results mean and discuss any next steps with you.
Results are typically reported as a concentration value (e.g., micrograms per milliliter). Higher-than-expected levels may indicate the antibiotic is working, while very low levels could suggest it’s not reaching the infection site effectively.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance
Short name
CSF Ciprofloxacin Level
Frequently asked questions
This test is critical for adjusting antibiotic therapy in cases of meningitis or other central nervous system infections. Proper dosing ensures the antibiotic is effective while minimizing side effects. Low levels may prompt a change in treatment plan, such as increasing dosage or switching medications.
A normal result means the antibiotic concentration in your spinal fluid is likely within the therapeutic range for treating the infection. An abnormal result may require further evaluation by your doctor to adjust treatment, such as increasing the dose or switching to a different antibiotic.
You can typically eat and drink normally unless your doctor specifies otherwise. Avoid caffeine or alcohol before the procedure, as they may affect the lumbar puncture process.
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