Lumbar Spinal Fluid Analysis (General Protein Profile)
This test measures protein levels in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from a lumbar puncture. It helps assess conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, or surrounding membranes.
["Protein levels in spinal fluid can signal inflammation, infection, or structural issues in the nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 30866-8
- Short code
- MR Lumbosacral plexus
- Synonyms
- MR Lumbosacral plexus
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 44
- Ref high
- 147
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr
- CPT
- 84075
- SNOMED
- 27550007
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck/back pain, numbness, weakness, or neurological concerns. It’s also used to diagnose conditions such as multiple sclerosis, meningitis, or tumors affecting the central nervous system.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll receive a local anesthetic at the injection site. Lie on your stomach and remain still during the procedure, which takes about 15–30 minutes. Hydration and rest afterward are recommended.
How the Test Works
A needle is inserted into the lower back to collect CSF. The fluid is sent to a lab for analysis, including protein measurement, often alongside other tests like glucose or cell counts.
What the Results Mean
Abnormal protein levels (elevated or low) may indicate inflammation, infection, or diseases like Guillain-Barré syndrome or spinal cord compression. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in context with your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Adult: 44-147 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Avoid fatty meals before the test if possible.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Clinical Significance: Protein in CSF can reflect underlying conditions like demyelination (e.g., multiple sclerosis), immune-mediated disorders, or metabolic disturbances. Elevated proteins may also suggest leakage from blood vessels or tumors.
Short name
Lumbar CSF Protein Profile
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal protein levels in spinal fluid?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I drink alcohol 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