Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (CSF) – Serum or Plasma Concentration
This test measures the amount of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF) in your blood. CSF is a protein that helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, which play a key role in fighting infections.
["CSF helps your immune system respond to infections by boosting white blood cell production."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 44817-5
- Short code
- CMV IgM CSF IA-aCnc
- Synonyms
- CMV IgM CSF IA-aCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ia
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Is CSF Used For?
CSF levels may be checked if you have symptoms of low white blood cell counts (like frequent infections), certain cancers (such as leukemia), or after treatments that affect your immune system, like chemotherapy. Doctors may also order this test to monitor conditions like severe infections or to assess bone marrow function.
How Is This Test Done?
A blood sample is taken from a vein, usually in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure CSF concentration. Results are reported in arbitrary units per milliliter (U/mL) or mass concentration units.
What Do Results Mean?
Abnormal results may indicate overactive or underactive immune responses, infections, or certain medical conditions. Your doctor will interpret the results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Common Reasons for Testing
Tests for CSF levels are often done in patients undergoing cancer treatments, those with immune system disorders, or those experiencing unexplained infections. It can also help diagnose or monitor conditions like aplastic anemia or severe neutropenia.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: CSF plays a critical role in regulating white blood cell production. Elevated levels might suggest overstimulation of the immune system, while low levels could indicate suppressed bone marrow function or severe infections. Doctors use these results to guide treatments for conditions affecting immunity or blood cell production.
Short name
CSF Level
Frequently asked questions
Why might my doctor order this test?
What are typical reference ranges?
Can I eat or drink before 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