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Taurine, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Mass Concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

Measures the amount of taurine in cerebrospinal fluid to help evaluate certain nutritional, metabolic, and neurologic conditions.

Quick summary

["This test measures taurine in spinal fluid and is usually interpreted alongside symptoms and other laboratory results."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
2979-3
Short code
Taurine CSF-mCnc
Synonyms
Taurine CSF-mCnc
Category
urine
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the concentration of taurine, an amino sulfonic acid found throughout the body, in cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid surrounds the brain and spinal cord.

Why might I need this test?

A clinician may order this test when evaluating unexplained neurologic symptoms, suspected nutritional or metabolic disorders, or conditions that may affect taurine metabolism. It is generally interpreted together with other cerebrospinal fluid and blood tests.

How is the test performed?

Cerebrospinal fluid is usually collected by lumbar puncture, in which a clinician inserts a needle into the space around the lower spinal cord. The fluid is sent to a laboratory, where the amount of taurine is measured.

How do I prepare for the test?

There is usually no specific preparation for a lumbar puncture unless your clinician provides different instructions. Tell the clinician about medicines, allergies, blood-thinning medicines, and any prior spinal problems before the procedure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

An abnormal taurine result may reflect changes in nutrition, metabolism, or transport involving taurine, but this measurement is not specific to one condition. Low or elevated results should be interpreted by a clinician using symptoms, examination findings, and other laboratory tests. A cerebrospinal fluid taurine result alone usually does not establish a diagnosis.

Short name

CSF Taurine

Frequently asked questions

Is a lumbar puncture painful?
A lumbar puncture may cause brief pressure or discomfort, but local anesthetic is generally used to reduce pain. Most people tolerate the procedure well, although some develop a headache afterward.
What could cause an abnormal CSF taurine result?
Abnormal results may occur with nutritional changes, impaired taurine metabolism or transport, liver or kidney conditions, and certain neurologic disorders. Other clinical and laboratory findings are needed to determine the cause.
Does this test require fasting?
Fasting is not generally required specifically for this test. Follow any preparation instructions provided by the ordering clinician, especially if other tests are being performed at the same time.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy