Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor (CSF) Level, Serum/Plasma
This test measures the level of granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF) in your blood. CSF is a protein that helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, particularly neutrophils, which play a key role in fighting infections.
["CSF supports immune response and helps manage infections."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 88454-4
- Short code
- MuV IgG+IgM CSF IF-Imp
- Synonyms
- MuV IgG+IgM CSF IF-Imp
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- if
- CPT
- 82784
- 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 like frequent or severe infections, low white blood cell counts, or if you’re undergoing treatment that could affect your immune system, such as chemotherapy. It may also be used to monitor certain conditions like bone marrow disorders or after stem cell transplants.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically needed. You may have a blood draw from a vein in your arm, similar to other blood tests. If you’re on blood thinners or have a history of bleeding disorders, let your provider know beforehand.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. The blood sample will be sent to a lab for analysis. The test measures the concentration of CSF in your serum or plasma using an immunoassay method, which detects the protein’s presence.
What the Results Mean
Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider based on your medical history and symptoms. Abnormal levels may indicate conditions affecting white blood cell production or immune function, but specific interpretations depend on clinical context.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (CSF) is crucial for the production and function of neutrophils, a type of white blood cell that helps fight infections. Low levels may suggest impaired immune response, while elevated levels could indicate inflammation, infection, or certain cancers. Your provider will use these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
Short name
CSF Level
Frequently asked questions
What causes low CSF levels?
What causes high CSF levels?
How often should I get 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