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Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein (Total)

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

This test measures the total amount of protein found in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord).

Quick summary

["Protein levels in CSF can help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting your nervous system."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
20279-6
Short code
DeprecatedArea orifice
Synonyms
DeprecatedArea orifice
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
us-d
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

What Is Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)?

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, watery fluid that cushions your brain and spinal cord, providing nutrients and removing waste. When taken from your spinal column, it can also reveal clues about health issues in your nervous system, including infections, inflammation, or structural problems.

When Might This Test Be Needed?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, vision changes, or neurological issues (e.g., numbness, weakness). It’s also used to diagnose conditions like meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or tumors in the brain/spinal cord.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small amount of CSF is collected via a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). A needle is inserted into your lower back, and fluid is drawn into a sterile container. The test is quick but may cause mild discomfort.

What Do Results Mean?

Higher-than-normal protein levels in CSF can signal inflammation, infections, or blood leakage into the spinal canal. Lower-than-normal levels may indicate certain genetic disorders or metabolic issues. Results are interpreted by your doctor in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: Why It Matters

Short name

CSF Protein

Frequently asked questions

Why was this test ordered?
Your doctor may have suspected conditions like meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or a brain tumor based on your symptoms or test results. Elevated protein levels often point to inflammation or immune activity in the central nervous system.
What if my protein levels are high?
High CSF protein could mean an infection (e.g., bacterial or viral meningitis), a demyelinating disease (e.g., multiple sclerosis), or a tumor. Your doctor will guide further testing (e.g., bloodwork, imaging) to identify the cause.
How often should I get this test?
This test is typically done once or twice for diagnostic purposes. If you have a chronic condition (e.g., multiple sclerosis), your doctor may monitor protein levels periodically to track disease progression or response to treatment.
  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