Globulin, Cerebrospinal Fluid, Mass Concentration
This test measures the total amount of globulin protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Globulins are a group of proteins that include antibodies and transport proteins, and their level in CSF can help evaluate certain neurologic and inflammatory conditions.
["A CSF globulin measurement helps your care team look for abnormal protein patterns in the fluid around your brain and spinal cord."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14426-1
- Short code
- Globulin CSF-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Globulin CSF-mCnc
- 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
What Is Being Measured
Globulins are a broad group of proteins in blood and other body fluids. They include antibodies (immunoglobulins) made by the immune system and proteins that carry substances through the body. This test measures the total mass concentration of globulins in a sample of cerebrospinal fluid.
Why CSF Is Sampled
Cerebrospinal fluid is collected by lumbar puncture (spinal tap), usually to evaluate symptoms such as severe headache, unexplained neurologic changes, or suspected infection or inflammation of the central nervous system. Measuring proteins like globulin in this fluid can add information beyond what a blood test shows.
How the Test Is Done
A CSF sample is obtained through a lumbar puncture, in which a thin needle is placed in the lower back to collect fluid. The fluid is then analyzed in the laboratory to determine the globulin concentration. Your care team will explain how to prepare and what to expect during the procedure.
How Results Are Interpreted
Results are interpreted by your clinician alongside other CSF tests, such as total protein, albumin, cell counts, and sometimes protein electrophoresis. A single value is rarely meaningful on its own, and reference ranges vary by laboratory, so your report's own range and your clinician's interpretation are what matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CSF globulin measurement can support the evaluation of conditions that alter proteins in the central nervous system, including inflammatory, infectious, and demyelinating disorders. It is most useful when combined with other CSF and blood findings rather than as a stand-alone test.
Short name
CSF Globulin
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose a specific disease on its own?
Is a lumbar puncture painful?
Should I fast 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