Cystathionine in Cerebrospinal Fluid
This test measures the amount of cystathionine, an amino acid, in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord). It may be used to help diagnose or monitor certain genetic or metabolic conditions.
["This test helps assess amino acid levels in your brain’s protective fluid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26592-6
- Short code
- Cystathionin CSF-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Cystathionin CSF-sCnc
- 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
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like developmental delays, movement issues, or neurological problems that could be linked to an amino acid disorder. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions like homocystinuria or other metabolic diseases.
What Does the Result Mean?
Abnormal levels of cystathionine in CSF can indicate genetic or metabolic disorders affecting how your body processes amino acids. Your results will be compared to a reference range specific to this test, and your provider will interpret them in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
How Is This Test Performed?
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then sent to a lab for analysis using specialized techniques to measure cystathionine concentration.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Elevated cystathionine levels in CSF may be associated with inherited disorders like cystathionine synthase deficiency. Low or abnormal levels could suggest other metabolic or genetic conditions, though this is less common. Always discuss results with your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test is primarily used to diagnose or monitor conditions related to amino acid metabolism disorders in the central nervous system. Elevated cystathionine levels can be a marker for genetic disorders that require early intervention, such as enzyme replacement therapy or dietary modifications.
Short name
Cystathionine CSF
Frequently asked questions
What does a cystathionine CSF test involve?
How often is this test repeated?
Can this test be done at home?
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