Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein by Electrophoresis
This test measures the different types of proteins found in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which surrounds your brain and spinal cord. It helps identify abnormalities that may suggest conditions like multiple sclerosis, infections, or other neurological issues.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting brain and spinal fluid protein levels."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 111929-6
- Short code
- Site Head+Neck Endscpy
- Synonyms
- Site Head+Neck Endscpy
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 22
- Ref high
- 198
- Critical range
- — – 10000 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- endoscopy
- CPT
- 82553
- 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 headaches, vision problems, numbness, weakness, or balance issues. It could also be done if you have a history of neurological conditions or if tests like MRI or lumbar puncture suggest potential abnormalities in your CSF.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll typically have a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) where a small needle is inserted into your lower back to collect CSF. The procedure is usually quick and done in a hospital setting. You may feel mild discomfort, but it’s generally well-tolerated.
What the Results Mean
The electrophoresis separates CSF proteins into bands, showing patterns that can reveal imbalances. For example, high levels of certain proteins might indicate inflammation, infections, or demyelinating diseases. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple sclerosis, meningitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, or other neurological disorders that affect protein composition in CSF.
Reference range
Adult males: 22-198 U/L; Females: 22-198 U/LN/A
No special preparation required. Inform provider of any chest pain or symptoms.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns can point to specific conditions, guiding treatments such as medications for inflammation, infections, or immune-related disorders. For example, elevated immunoglobulin bands might suggest autoimmune diseases, while low protein levels could indicate severe infections or bleeding.
Short name
CSF Protein Electrophoresis
Frequently asked questions
What does a normal result mean?
How often should I get this test?
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 17, 2026. · Read our editorial policy