Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein by Electrophoresis (Qualitative)
This test measures the types and amounts of proteins in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which surrounds your brain and spinal cord. It helps identify abnormalities that may indicate conditions like multiple sclerosis, infections, or other neurological disorders.
["This test helps diagnose and monitor neurological conditions by analyzing protein patterns in your spinal fluid."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 14322-2
- Short code
- S pneum Ag CSF Ql LA
- Synonyms
- S pneum Ag CSF Ql LA
- Category
- coagulation
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- la
- 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 if you have symptoms like headaches, vision problems, numbness, weakness, or balance issues. It’s also used to check for conditions like multiple sclerosis, meningitis, or brain tumors, especially when combined with other tests like MRI or lumbar puncture.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely have a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) where a small needle is inserted into your lower back to collect CSF. The procedure takes about 15–30 minutes and may cause mild discomfort. No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or allergies.
What the Test Results Mean
Results show protein bands separated by electrophoresis, which can reveal abnormal patterns. For example, high levels of immunoglobulin G (IgG) might suggest a neurological disease, while low protein could indicate bleeding or infection. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and other tests.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or monitor conditions like multiple sclerosis (where protein bands may show oligoclonal bands), meningitis (increased protein due to inflammation), or subarachnoid hemorrhage (where protein levels may spike from bleeding).
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Abnormal protein patterns can confirm or rule out neurological diseases. For instance, elevated protein in CSF may guide treatment for autoimmune diseases, while specific band patterns can help confirm infections or tumors. Results help doctors tailor treatment plans, such as steroids for inflammation or targeted therapies for cancer.
Short name
CSF Protein Electrophoresis (Qual)
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘qualitative’ result mean?
Will I need to fast before this test?
Can I take pain relievers before the lumbar puncture?
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