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Taurine, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Substance Concentration

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

Measures the amount of taurine in cerebrospinal fluid to help evaluate amino acid metabolism and certain rare metabolic or transport disorders.

Quick summary

["This test measures taurine in spinal fluid and may help investigate unexplained neurologic symptoms or suspected metabolic disorders."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26614-8
Short code
Taurine CSF-sCnc
Synonyms
Taurine CSF-sCnc
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?

Taurine is an amino sulfonic acid that acts as a neurotransmitter-like signaling molecule and helps protect cells. This test measures the concentration of taurine in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Why might I need this test?

This test may be ordered when neurologic symptoms or developmental concerns suggest an inherited metabolic condition. It may also be used in the evaluation of disorders involving amino acid transport, metabolism, or brain function.

How is the test performed?

Cerebrospinal fluid is usually collected by lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap. A laboratory then measures the taurine concentration in the fluid using an appropriate analytical method.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the instructions provided by your clinician or the facility performing the lumbar puncture. Tell the care team about any medicines, recent procedures, or medical conditions that could affect the procedure or fluid collection.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

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. Serious complications are uncommon, and the clinician performing the procedure can explain the risks and benefits.
Does this test detect all inherited metabolic disorders?
No. It measures one component of amino acid metabolism and is interpreted together with symptoms, other laboratory tests, and sometimes genetic testing.
Can this test be performed on blood instead?
Blood and cerebrospinal fluid measurements are related but are not interchangeable because their concentrations can differ. This test specifically uses cerebrospinal fluid.
  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