Skip to content

Cerebrospinal Fluid Total Protein by Nephelometry

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

This test measures the total amount of protein found in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord). Protein levels can help diagnose conditions affecting the central nervous system.

Quick summary

["Protein in CSF may signal 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
22188-7
Short code
C trach IgA Titr CSF
Synonyms
C trach 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 headaches, neck stiffness, vision changes, or neurological issues. It’s often used to investigate conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or tumors in the brain or spinal cord.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have a small needle inserted into your back to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid. This is usually done in a hospital or clinic setting. You may feel a brief pinch, but it’s generally quick and not painful.

How the Test Results Are Interpreted

Results are compared to standard ranges for CSF protein levels. Abnormally high or low values may indicate underlying health concerns that require further evaluation, such as blood tests or imaging.

Common Conditions Affecting Results

Elevated protein levels can occur with infections (e.g., bacterial or viral meningitis), autoimmune diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis), or tumors. Low levels may suggest conditions like severe dehydration or certain genetic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Elevated CSF protein is often a marker of disrupted blood-brain barrier, inflammation, or breakdown of the blood-brain barrier itself. It can be a key diagnostic tool for neurological disorders but should be interpreted alongside other clinical findings and tests.

Short name

CSF Total Protein

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal CSF protein levels?
Abnormal CSF protein levels can result from infections (like meningitis), inflammatory diseases (such as Guillain-Barré syndrome), or conditions affecting the brain’s blood vessels (e.g., subarachnoid hemorrhage). Lifestyle factors like severe dehydration or certain medications may also influence results.
How long does it take to get test results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will discuss them with you during your follow-up visit.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Dietary factors rarely impact CSF protein levels, but medications that affect protein metabolism (e.g., certain steroids or chemotherapy drugs) may indirectly influence results. Always inform your provider about all medications.
  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