Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Total Protein by Immunoassay
This test measures the total protein content in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord). Protein levels can help assess conditions affecting the central nervous system.
["Protein in CSF may signal inflammation, bleeding, or other neurological issues."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 62441-1
- Short code
- nRBC CSF Auto-Rto
- Synonyms
- nRBC CSF Auto-Rto
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 4.2
- Ref high
- 5.9
- Critical range
- 2 N/A – 7 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- automated-count
- CPT
- 85041
- SNOMED
- 900000000000003001
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test to investigate symptoms like headaches, neurological problems, seizures, or signs of infection in the brain or spinal cord. It can also help diagnose conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or tumors.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed. You may have a small needle inserted into your back to collect a sample of CSF, often done under mild sedation or local anesthesia. The procedure is quick but may cause temporary discomfort.
How the Test Results Are Interpreted
Results are compared to standard ranges for CSF protein levels. Elevated levels may indicate inflammation, bleeding, or other abnormalities in the central nervous system.
Common Conditions Affecting Results
High protein levels can be linked to infections (like meningitis), autoimmune diseases (such as multiple sclerosis), or tumors. Low levels are less common but may occur in certain genetic or metabolic disorders.
Reference range
Adult males: 4.2-5.9; Females: 3.8-5.1 x 10^12/LN/A
No special preparation required. Stay well hydrated.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
This test is critical for diagnosing and monitoring neurological conditions. Abnormal protein levels can guide treatment decisions, such as identifying infections, assessing damage from trauma, or evaluating the effectiveness of ongoing therapies.
Short name
CSF Protein Total
Frequently asked questions
What causes abnormal CSF protein levels?
How often should I get this test?
Can diet or lifestyle affect 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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy