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Serum/plasma concentration of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of a protein called granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF) in your blood. CSF helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are important for fighting infections.

Quick summary

["CSF supports immune function and may be checked for conditions affecting blood cell production."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43045-4
Short code
CMV IgM CSF Ql
Synonyms
CMV IgM CSF Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like frequent infections, fatigue, or low white blood cell counts. It could also be part of monitoring for conditions such as chemotherapy-related neutropenia or certain blood cancers.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is usually needed. You may have a simple blood draw, often done in a clinic or lab. If you’re on blood thinners, let your provider know to avoid excessive bruising.

What the Results Mean

Results help determine if your body is producing enough CSF to support white blood cell health. Abnormal levels might indicate issues with blood cell production or immune function.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is sometimes used to assess responses to treatments like chemotherapy or growth factors designed to boost white blood cell counts in patients with low levels.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

CSF levels can be important in diagnosing or managing conditions like severe neutropenia (low neutrophil counts), certain cancers (e.g., leukemia), or infections that affect blood cell production. However, it’s not a standalone test for these conditions and is often part of a broader evaluation.

Short name

CSF Level

Frequently asked questions

What does a low CSF level mean?
A low CSF level may suggest your body isn’t producing enough of this protein to support white blood cell production, which could lead to increased infection risk. This might be due to chemotherapy, certain cancers, or other blood disorders.
What does a high CSF level mean?
High CSF levels are less common and may indicate an overactive immune response or other rare conditions affecting blood cell production. Your provider will discuss findings in the context of your overall health.
How often should I get this test?
Your provider will determine the frequency based on your medical needs, such as monitoring treatment responses or managing chronic conditions like blood cancers or chemotherapy side effects.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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