Goldstein-Gruber test for alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)
This test measures alpha-fetoprotein (AFP), a protein produced primarily by the liver and yolk sac during fetal development. Elevated levels in cerebrospinal fluid may indicate certain neurological conditions, including tumors or infections.
["AFP in CSF can help diagnose or monitor conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 11908-1
- Short code
- GA from cerebellum.Goldstein87
- Synonyms
- GA from cerebellum.Goldstein87
- 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-estimated-from-cerebellum-goldstein
- 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
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neurological issues, or if they suspect conditions such as brain tumors, infections (like meningitis), or other abnormalities in the central nervous system. It’s sometimes used in conjunction with other tests to get a clearer picture of your health.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your back to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). This may cause mild discomfort, but it’s usually over quickly.
What the Test Results Mean
AFP levels in CSF are typically measured in arbitrary units. While reference ranges vary by lab, very high levels may suggest conditions like germinomas (a type of brain tumor) or other neurological disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and other tests.
Common Conditions Monitored
Elevated AFP in CSF is often associated with germ cell tumors (such as germinomas), neurocysticercosis (a parasitic infection), or other rare neurological conditions. Low or normal levels help rule out these possibilities.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Elevated AFP in CSF can signal serious conditions that require further medical evaluation, such as brain tumors or infections. Your doctor will work with your results alongside other tests to guide treatment decisions.
Short name
AFP in CSF (Goldstein-Gruber method)
Frequently asked questions
What does an elevated AFP in CSF mean?
How is this test different from AFP blood tests?
Can I take anything 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