Creatcsfmcnc
A laboratory test that measures creatinine levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to assess brain and nervous system health.
{"Measures creatinine protein in the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord","Helps evaluate blood-brain barrier integrity and brain metabolism","Abnormal levels may indicate neurological conditions or kidney-related issues","Collected via lumbar puncture (spinal tap)","Results are interpreted alongside other clinical findings"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14398-2
- Short code
- CSF CREAT
- Synonyms
- Creat CSF-mCnc
- Category
- kidney
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile CSF collection tube (polypropylene), preferably tube 2 or 3 (if multiple tubes collected)
- Units
- not specified
- Ref low
- 0.5
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 3 not specified
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Enzymatic method or Jaffe kinetic method
- CPT
- 82150
- SNOMED
- 313337008
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL of CSF
- Stability
- CSF should be analyzed within 2-4 hours of collection. If delay >4 hours, refrigerate at 2-8°C; stable for up to 24-48 hours. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 24–72 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The CSF Creatinine test measures the amount of creatinine, a waste product from muscle metabolism, in the cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear, protective liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. This test is part of a broader CSF analysis panel that helps doctors evaluate the health of the central nervous system.
Why is it performed?
Healthcare providers may order this test to: assess the integrity of the blood-brain barrier, which separates the blood from the cerebrospinal fluid; evaluate patients with suspected neurological disorders such as meningitis, encephalitis, or multiple sclerosis; monitor conditions that affect brain metabolism; and help differentiate between various types of neurological conditions.
How is the sample collected?
The sample is collected through a procedure called lumbar puncture, commonly known as a spinal tap. During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle between the bones of the lower spine to withdraw cerebrospinal fluid. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia and takes about 15-30 minutes. Patients may experience some discomfort or headache afterward.
Reference range
0.5-1.2 mg/dLnot specified
No fasting or special prep required; specimen obtained by lumbar puncture
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Frequently asked questions
Is fasting required before the test?
Are there any risks associated with lumbar puncture?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test diagnose specific diseases?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 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