Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Total Protein by Substance Concentration (Neph/Immunoassay)
This test measures the total protein content in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord). It helps assess conditions affecting the brain’s protective barrier or blood-brain barrier.
["Protein levels in CSF can signal inflammation, infection, or structural issues in the central nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 110910-7
- Short code
- MuV IgM Msmt CSF
- Synonyms
- MuV IgM Msmt CSF
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- 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 doctor may recommend this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neurological problems, or signs of conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or brain tumors. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress or diagnose certain spinal cord disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your lumbar spine to collect a small amount of CSF. The procedure is quick and usually painless, though you may feel mild pressure or discomfort.
What the Results Mean
Elevated protein levels in CSF can indicate inflammation, infection, or blood leakage into the brain. Lower-than-expected levels may suggest certain genetic or metabolic disorders. Results are interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results
High protein levels might be seen in conditions like multiple sclerosis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or infections such as meningitis. Low levels could be associated with rare genetic disorders or certain metabolic conditions affecting protein synthesis.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CSF protein testing is critical for diagnosing and managing neurological diseases. It helps differentiate between infections, inflammatory diseases, and structural abnormalities in the central nervous system. Early detection can guide treatment decisions and improve outcomes.
Short name
CSF Protein Total
Frequently asked questions
How is CSF collected for this test?
Will the test hurt?
Can I eat or drink 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