Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Total Protein by Nephelometry
This test measures the total protein content in your cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds your brain and spinal cord. Protein levels can help identify issues like inflammation, infections, or bleeding in the central nervous system.
["Protein in CSF may signal neurological conditions that need further evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 22416-2
- Short code
- MuV IgG Titr CSF
- Synonyms
- MuV IgG Titr CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 8
- Ref high
- 61
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 82977
- SNOMED
- 3110003
- 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 severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, or neurological problems. It could also be part of a diagnostic workup for conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury.
What Does the Test Involve?
A small amount of CSF is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then sent to the lab for analysis. This test helps assess the composition of the fluid, including protein levels, to identify abnormalities.
What Are Common Results?
Protein levels in CSF can vary based on health conditions. Elevated protein levels may suggest conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or certain infections. Lower than expected levels might be seen in some genetic disorders or rare cases of CSF leakage.
What Are the Risks?
The lumbar puncture carries a small risk of headaches, infection, or bleeding at the injection site. Most people experience minimal discomfort and recover quickly. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for post-procedure care.
Reference range
Adult males: 8-61 U/L; Adult females: 5-36 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.
High protein levels in CSF can indicate inflammation, immune responses, or breakdown of the blood-brain barrier. Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, encephalitis, or certain types of tumors may present with elevated protein. Low protein levels may be associated with rare conditions affecting CSF production or absorption.
Short name
CSF Protein Level
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results from this test?
What should I do if I have a headache after the lumbar puncture?
Can I drink alcohol or take pain relievers before 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