Cerebrospinal Fluid Total Protein by Bromocresol Green (Qualitative)
This test measures the total protein content in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord. It helps assess conditions affecting the brain’s protective barrier or fluid balance.
["A protein test in your spinal fluid can help diagnose or monitor conditions like infections, inflammation, or structural issues in the brain."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 35886-1
- Short code
- CT Guided Brst PC fluid asp
- Synonyms
- CT Guided Brst PC fluid asp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ct
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or neurological problems that suggest an issue with your brain’s fluid or protein levels. It’s also used to check for conditions like meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or tumors.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely have a spinal tap (lumbar puncture) where a small needle is inserted into your lower back to collect CSF. The procedure takes about 15–30 minutes and may cause mild discomfort. You may be asked to lie on your side or sit for a short time afterward.
What the Results Mean
Results are qualitative (descriptive rather than numerical). High protein levels might indicate inflammation, infection, or blood in the CSF. Low levels could suggest certain brain conditions or blockages. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or track conditions like meningitis, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or brain tumors. It can also rule out issues like bleeding in the brain or certain types of encephalitis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated protein levels in CSF often signal inflammation, immune responses, or breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. Low protein levels may suggest impaired fluid drainage or rare metabolic disorders. Always discuss results with your doctor, as they’re part of a broader evaluation.
Short name
CSF Protein Qualitative Test
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What are the most common reasons for this test?
Is there anything I should avoid before the 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