Lysine concentration in cerebrospinal fluid
This test measures the amount of lysine, an essential amino acid, found in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). It may be used to evaluate conditions affecting the central nervous system.
["Lysine levels in CSF can help diagnose or monitor certain neurological conditions."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22651-4
- Short code
- Lysine CSF-sCnc
- Synonyms
- Lysine 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 is this test done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, seizures, or neurological issues that could be linked to abnormal protein or amino acid levels in your CSF. It may also be part of a broader evaluation for conditions such as meningitis, metabolic disorders, or genetic disorders affecting amino acid metabolism.
What does the test involve?
A small amount of CSF is collected through a procedure called lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The sample is then analyzed to measure lysine concentration using a specialized laboratory method.
What do the results mean?
Results are compared to expected ranges for healthy individuals. Abnormal levels may indicate underlying health concerns, but interpretation requires review by your healthcare provider.
What preparation is needed?
No special preparation is typically required for this test. You may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications, but this depends on your specific situation and should be discussed with your provider.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical significance: Elevated or low lysine levels in CSF can be associated with various neurological conditions, including inherited metabolic disorders, infections, or certain types of brain inflammation. Your provider will consider the full clinical picture, including symptoms and other test results, before making a diagnosis.
Short name
Lysine CSF
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal lysine levels in CSF?
How is this test different from blood lysine levels?
Will I need to take any medications before or after the 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