Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the types and amounts of proteins found in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which surrounds your brain and spinal cord. It helps identify abnormalities that may suggest conditions like multiple sclerosis, infections, or tumors.
["This test can help diagnose or monitor neurological conditions by analyzing protein patterns in your spinal fluid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 10526-2
- Short code
- Cyto Spt
- Synonyms
- Cyto Spt
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- sputum
- Container
- Sterile sputum container
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- cyto-stain
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- Specimen volume
- 3-5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) contains various proteins, including albumin, immunoglobulins (like IgG, IgA, and IgM), and other proteins. The electrophoresis process separates these proteins by size and charge, allowing for detailed analysis of their distribution. This helps detect abnormal protein patterns that may indicate underlying health issues.
Why Might You Need This Test?
Your doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neurological problems, or signs of inflammation in the central nervous system. It’s also used to monitor conditions like multiple sclerosis, meningitis, or certain types of brain tumors.
How Is the Sample Collected?
A small amount of CSF is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). A doctor inserts a needle into your lower back to draw the fluid into a sterile container. This is usually done in a hospital setting under sterile conditions.
What Are Common Results and Next Steps?
Results may show normal protein patterns or abnormal bands (e.g., oligoclonal bands, elevated albumin, or specific immunoglobulin spikes). If abnormalities are found, further testing or evaluation by a neurologist or specialist may be needed to determine the cause.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: This test plays a key role in diagnosing and managing neurological disorders by identifying protein abnormalities in the CSF. For example, elevated IgG or oligoclonal bands may suggest demyelinating diseases like multiple sclerosis, while other patterns could indicate infections, tumors, or inflammatory conditions. Early detection can guide treatment decisions.
Short name
CSF Protein Electrophoresis (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘qualitative’ result mean for my test?
How long does it take to get results from this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
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