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Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein (Total) by Immunoassay

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

This test measures the total protein content in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord. Protein levels can help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting the central nervous system.

Quick summary

["Protein in CSF may indicate inflammation, infection, or structural issues in the brain or spinal cord."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22169-7
Short code
C pneum IgA Titr CSF
Synonyms
C pneum IgA Titr CSF
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 This Test Is Done

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, vision changes, or neurological issues. It’s also used to evaluate conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or brain tumors.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll have a small needle inserted into your lumbar spine to collect CSF. The procedure is quick but may cause mild discomfort. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications or allergies.

What the Results Mean

Normal protein levels in CSF are generally lower than in blood. Elevated levels may suggest inflammation, infection, or blood leakage into the CSF. Very high levels could indicate serious conditions like brain tumors or severe infections.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or track conditions like meningitis, encephalitis, multiple sclerosis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or certain brain tumors. It’s also used to assess the effectiveness of treatments for these conditions.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal CSF protein levels?
Abnormal CSF protein levels can result from infections (e.g., meningitis), inflammatory diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis), bleeding into the CSF, or certain brain tumors. Your provider will consider your symptoms and other test results to determine the cause.
How is CSF protein tested?
The test involves collecting CSF through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then analyzed using an immunoassay method to measure total protein concentration.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Diet or over-the-counter medications typically do not affect CSF protein levels. However, certain medications (like steroids) or recent infections may influence results. Always discuss your medications with your provider before the test.
  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