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Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Total Protein by Electrophoresis

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. It helps assess conditions affecting the blood-brain barrier or protein movement between blood and CSF.

Quick summary

["Assessing protein levels in CSF can help diagnose or monitor neurological conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
110871-1
Short code
C trach IgG Msmt CSF
Synonyms
C trach IgG Msmt 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 doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neurological issues, or signs of inflammation in the brain or spinal cord. It can also be part of evaluations for conditions such as multiple sclerosis, infections, or tumors.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You may have a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to collect the CSF sample, which involves lying on your side and having a small needle inserted between your lower back bones. You might feel pressure or discomfort, but it usually doesn’t last long.

What the Results Mean

Elevated protein levels in CSF can indicate conditions like infections, inflammation, or certain neurological diseases. Lower-than-normal levels may suggest bleeding or other abnormalities. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or tumors like lymphoma or metastatic cancer in the central nervous system.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Protein Profile

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low protein level in CSF usually indicate?
A high protein level in CSF often suggests conditions that increase protein movement into the CSF, such as infections (e.g., bacterial or viral meningitis), inflammatory diseases, or certain neurological disorders. A low protein level may indicate bleeding into the CSF or other rare conditions that reduce protein presence.
How is the CSF sample collected for this test?
The CSF sample is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). A healthcare provider inserts a needle between your lower back bones to draw fluid into a container. You may feel mild pressure or discomfort, but it’s generally quick and temporary.
Can lifestyle changes or medications affect CSF protein levels?
Some medications or chronic conditions (like certain infections or autoimmune diseases) may influence CSF protein levels. However, lifestyle factors like diet or exercise typically do not directly affect this test result unless they contribute to underlying conditions being evaluated.
  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