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Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein Mass Concentration

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

This test measures the total amount of protein found in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), 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 other neurological issues."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
45062-7
Short code
CRP CSF-mCnc
Synonyms
CRP CSF-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
3
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
86140
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Might Be Ordered

Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or neurological problems. It’s also used to check for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, meningitis, or brain tumors.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your lumbar spine to collect a small sample of CSF. This is usually done in a hospital or clinic setting.

What the Results Mean

Normal protein levels in CSF are generally lower than in blood. Elevated levels may suggest inflammation, infection, or other neurological disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions Monitored

High protein levels can be linked to conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or certain types of brain inflammation. Low levels might be seen in rare cases but are less common.

Reference range

Normal: <3.0 mg/LN/A

Specimen: csf

No special preparation required. CRP may be affected by acute illness.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Protein Level

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal CSF protein levels?
Abnormal CSF protein levels can result from conditions affecting the blood-brain barrier, such as infections (e.g., meningitis), autoimmune diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis), or tumors. Stress, trauma, or certain medications may also influence protein levels.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
Can lifestyle changes affect this test?
While diet and exercise generally don’t directly impact CSF protein levels, avoiding strenuous activity or certain medications (like NSAIDs) for a few days before the test may help reduce variability in results.
  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