: Cystathionine, Cerebrospinal Fluid, by Mass Concentration
: This test measures the amount of cystathionine, an amino acid intermediate, in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It is used in specialized evaluations of certain metabolic disorders.
[": Cystathionine in CSF is a specialized marker that can help evaluate rare metabolic conditions affecting sulfur amino acid processing."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 13370-2
- Short code
- Cystathionin CSF-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Cystathionin CSF-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What Is Cystathionine?
: Cystathionine is an amino acid made and used during the body's processing of sulfur-containing amino acids such as methionine and homocysteine. It is an intermediate in the transsulfuration pathway, which helps convert these compounds and supports normal metabolism.
: Why Measure It in Cerebrospinal Fluid?
: Cerebrospinal fluid surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Measuring cystathionine in CSF can give information about metabolism within the central nervous system, which blood tests may not fully reflect. This test is typically ordered by specialists when a metabolic or neurological condition is suspected.
: How the Test Is Done
: A CSF sample is collected by lumbar puncture (spinal tap), usually performed by a clinician in a controlled setting. The fluid is then sent to a laboratory that measures cystathionine concentration. Preparation instructions, if any, will come from your care team.
: What Results Can Mean
: Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider alongside your symptoms, other lab tests, and sometimes genetic testing. Abnormal cystathionine levels may prompt further evaluation for inherited metabolic disorders. A single result is not a diagnosis, and reference ranges vary by laboratory.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: Cystathionine measurement in CSF is a specialized test generally used in the workup of suspected inborn errors of metabolism, particularly those involving sulfur amino acid pathways. It is not a routine screening test. Interpretation requires clinical context, and results should be discussed with a metabolic or neurological specialist.
Short name
: CSF Cystathionine
Frequently asked questions
: Is this a common test?
: Does an abnormal result always mean I have a disorder?
: How is the sample collected?
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