Cerebrospinal Fluid Total Protein by Nephelometry
This test measures the total amount of protein in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord). It helps assess conditions affecting the brain’s protective barrier or blood-brain barrier.
["Protein levels in CSF can signal inflammation, bleeding, or other neurological issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 34576-9
- Short code
- HAdV Ab Titr CSF
- Synonyms
- HAdV Ab Titr 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
What Is Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear liquid that cushions your brain and spinal cord. It circulates around these structures, providing nutrients and removing waste. When protein levels in CSF become abnormal, it may indicate problems like infections, tumors, or blood vessel leaks in the brain.
Why Might This Test Be Ordered?
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, vision changes, or neurological issues (e.g., numbness, weakness). It’s also used to diagnose conditions like meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or brain tumors.
How Is the Test Performed?
A small sample of CSF is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then analyzed in a lab to measure protein concentration using nephelometry, a precise method that detects protein particles in the sample.
What Are Common Causes of Abnormal Results?
Elevated protein levels in CSF can result from infections (e.g., meningitis), inflammatory diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis), or bleeding into the CSF. Low levels may suggest certain genetic disorders or rare metabolic conditions.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal CSF protein levels can indicate neurological disorders, infections, or blood vessel abnormalities. High levels often point to inflammation or immune responses, while low levels may raise concerns about genetic or metabolic issues. Always discuss results with your healthcare provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
CSF Total Protein
Frequently asked questions
What does a high CSF protein level mean?
What does a low CSF protein level mean?
How soon will I get results?
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