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Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein mass concentration (total)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein 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
99467-3
Short code
Cultivated Corn IgG-mCnc
Synonyms
Cultivated Corn IgG-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
CPT
82784
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 Might Be Ordered

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or neurological problems. It could also be used to monitor conditions such as multiple sclerosis, meningitis, or brain tumors.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have a small needle inserted into your lumbar spine to collect CSF. The procedure is usually quick and may cause mild discomfort. No special preparation is needed, but inform your provider about any medications or allergies.

What the Results Mean

Elevated protein levels in CSF may indicate inflammation, infection, or blood leakage into the spinal fluid. Lower-than-expected levels might suggest certain genetic or metabolic disorders. Your results will be interpreted by a healthcare professional based on your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions Monitored

This test helps diagnose or assess conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or certain autoimmune diseases affecting the nervous system.

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 infections (e.g., meningitis), inflammation (e.g., multiple sclerosis), blood leakage into the spinal fluid, or certain neurological disorders. Lifestyle factors like dehydration or recent trauma may also influence results.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your healthcare provider will contact you once they’re ready to discuss findings.
Can diet or medications affect this test?
Dietary changes or medications are unlikely to directly affect CSF protein levels, as this fluid is produced by the brain. However, certain medications (e.g., steroids) may influence inflammation-related 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