Lipid Profile: Linoleic Acid in Cerebrospinal Fluid (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of linoleic acid, a type of omega-6 fatty acid, in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It may be used to assess lipid metabolism or neurological conditions related to fatty acid levels.
["Understanding linoleic acid levels in CSF can help diagnose or monitor certain neurological or metabolic conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 54311-6
- Short code
- Linoleoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Linoleoylcarn CSF-sCnc
- 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
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms or conditions linked to abnormal fatty acid metabolism in the brain, such as neurological disorders, metabolic diseases, or if CSF analysis is part of a broader diagnostic evaluation for suspected lipid-related neurological issues.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required. You may be asked to fast for a short period if the test involves a blood draw, but since this specifically involves CSF, you may have a mild headache afterward as a normal part of the lumbar puncture procedure.
How the Test Is Performed
A healthcare professional will perform a lumbar puncture, where a small needle is inserted into your lower back to collect CSF. The sample is then analyzed for linoleic acid content using a specialized laboratory technique, likely high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC).
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your clinical symptoms, medical history, and other test results. Abnormal levels may suggest conditions affecting lipid metabolism or neurological function, but further evaluation is needed to determine the exact cause and next steps.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated or reduced linoleic acid levels in CSF could be associated with neurological disorders such as fatty acid storage diseases, metabolic encephalopathies, or other conditions affecting lipid transport and brain chemistry. It may also be part of a broader diagnostic workup for unexplained neurological symptoms or metabolic concerns.
Short name
Linoleic Acid in CSF
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal linoleic acid levels in CSF?
How long will it take to get my results?
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