Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Total Protein by Immunoassay
This test measures the total amount of protein found in your cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds your brain and spinal cord. Protein levels can help identify issues like inflammation, infections, or blood leaks in the central nervous system.
["Protein levels in CSF can signal potential neurological concerns that may require further medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 109744-3
- Short code
- ENA SM Ab Msmt CSF
- Synonyms
- ENA SM Ab Msmt CSF
- 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 Is This Test Done?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or neurological problems. It can also be part of investigations for conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, multiple sclerosis, or other brain/spinal cord disorders.
What Does the Test Involve?
A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then sent to the lab for testing. This test is usually done under sterile conditions and may involve mild discomfort but is generally safe.
What Are Common Results?
The test result is reported as the total protein concentration in the CSF, measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). While reference ranges can vary slightly by lab, normal values are generally lower than those found in blood. Elevated levels may indicate inflammation, infection, or blood contamination.
What Does It Mean If My Results Are Abnormal?
Higher-than-normal protein levels in CSF can suggest conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, multiple sclerosis, or certain infections. Lower-than-normal levels are less common but may occur in rare cases of severe brain swelling or other neurological conditions. Your doctor will discuss the results in detail with you.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Elevated CSF protein levels are often associated with increased permeability of the blood-brain barrier, inflammation, or demyelination. This test helps differentiate between infectious, inflammatory, and neoplastic (cancer-related) causes of neurological symptoms. Low protein levels are less frequently abnormal but may indicate conditions like hydrocephalus or severe edema.
Short name
CSF Protein Total
Frequently asked questions
What does a high CSF protein level mean?
How is CSF protein tested?
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