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Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of protein in cerebrospinal fluid, which can help evaluate inflammation, infection, bleeding, or other nervous system conditions.

Quick summary

["An elevated CSF protein level may suggest inflammation or another condition affecting the brain and spinal cord."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2328-3
Short code
GRP CSF-sCnc
Synonyms
GRP CSF-sCnc
Category
liver
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 this test?

This test measures the concentration of protein in cerebrospinal fluid, the clear fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Protein levels can provide information about inflammation, infection, bleeding, or damage within the nervous system.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest meningitis, encephalitis, multiple sclerosis, bleeding, or another neurologic condition. It is usually interpreted along with the cerebrospinal fluid cell count, glucose, and other laboratory findings.

How is the test performed?

Cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap. A clinician inserts a thin needle into the space around the lower spinal cord, removes some fluid, and sends it to the laboratory for analysis.

How do I prepare for the test?

No special food or medication preparation is usually required, but you should follow your clinician's instructions. After a lumbar puncture, you may be asked to lie down briefly and report severe headache, numbness, or weakness.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An elevated cerebrospinal fluid protein level may occur with infection, inflammation, bleeding, or tissue injury in the brain and spinal cord. Results are not diagnostic by themselves and must be interpreted with symptoms, other cerebrospinal fluid tests, and relevant imaging or examination findings.

Short name

CSF Protein

Frequently asked questions

Is a lumbar puncture painful?
A lumbar puncture may cause brief pressure or discomfort, although local anesthetic is generally used to reduce pain. The procedure is usually brief, and a clinician monitors you afterward.
Does an abnormal protein level identify one specific disease?
No. An abnormal level can occur in several conditions, so the result must be interpreted with the rest of the medical evaluation.
Can I resume normal activities after a spinal tap?
Ask your clinician when it is appropriate to resume strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or travel. Drinking fluids as directed and resting after the procedure may help reduce the chance of a post-lumbar-puncture headache.
  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