Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (CSF) Level, Manual Measurement
This test measures the level of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF) in your blood. CSF is a protein that helps stimulate the production and growth of granulocytes, a type of white blood cell important for fighting infections.
["CSF supports white blood cell function and may be checked if you have low granulocyte counts or need treatment for infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 76497-7
- Short code
- Granulocytes CSF Manual
- Synonyms
- Granulocytes CSF Manual
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- manual-count
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What Does This Test Measure?
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF) is a protein that plays a key role in the production and function of granulocytes, a type of white blood cell. These cells help your body fight off bacterial and some fungal infections. The manual measurement of CSF helps assess whether your body is producing enough of this protein to support proper immune function.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have low granulocyte counts (neutropenia), are undergoing chemotherapy that might reduce white blood cell production, or are receiving treatment to stimulate your immune system. It can also be used to monitor response to treatments that target CSF.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed for this test. You may have a small needle inserted into a vein (usually in your arm) to draw a blood sample. This process is usually quick and painless, though you might feel a brief pinch or slight discomfort.
What to Expect During the Test
The blood sample will be sent to a laboratory for manual measurement of CSF levels. Results are not typically available immediately and may take several days to a week, depending on the lab’s processes.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated CSF levels may indicate an overactive immune response or certain cancers affecting granulocyte production. Low CSF levels could suggest impaired immune function, side effects from medications, or underlying conditions like chemotherapy-induced neutropenia. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
Short name
Granulocyte CSF
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What are the typical reference ranges for CSF levels?
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