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Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 17, 2026

This test measures the total amount of protein in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord). Protein levels can help identify issues like inflammation, infections, or blood leaks in the central nervous system.

Quick summary

["Protein in CSF may signal neurological conditions or infections."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 17, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
34630-4
Short code
Substance P CSF-mCnc
Synonyms
Substance P CSF-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Critical range
0.5 N/A – —
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
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 severe headaches, neck stiffness, vision changes, or neurological problems. It’s also used to diagnose conditions such as meningitis, multiple sclerosis, or other spinal/nerve disorders.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed. You’ll have a small needle inserted into your back to collect a sample of CSF, usually done in a hospital setting. You may feel mild discomfort, but it’s quick and painless.

What the Results Mean

Higher-than-normal protein levels could indicate inflammation, infections, or blood leakage into the CSF. Lower-than-normal levels might suggest certain genetic or metabolic disorders. Your doctor will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and medical history.

Common Conditions Linked to Abnormal Results

Elevated protein levels may be seen in conditions like Guillain-Barré syndrome, multiple sclerosis, or tumors in the central nervous system. Low protein levels are less common but could relate to rare genetic disorders or metabolic issues.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Protein Level

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on your lab. Follow-up with your doctor is needed to discuss findings and next steps.
Can I eat or drink before this test?
No restrictions apply. You can eat, drink, and take medications as usual. The test is performed on a small sample collected during a spinal tap.
Is this test painful?
Most patients describe it as mild discomfort, similar to a needle stick. The procedure takes less than 10 minutes, and most people feel little to no pain afterward.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

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.

Medical Disclaimer

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