Total Protein and Albumin by Protein Electrophoresis with Immunoglobulin G Bands in Cerebrospinal Fluid
This test measures the amounts and patterns of proteins in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), including total protein and albumin, and looks for abnormal bands of immunoglobulin G (IgG). It helps evaluate conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord, such as inflammation or multiple sclerosis.
["CSF protein electrophoresis with IgG band detection helps detect abnormal immune activity within the central nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 98222-3
- Short code
- T palldm IgG bands CSF IB
- Synonyms
- T palldm IgG bands CSF IB
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile tube
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ib
- CPT
- 82784
- Specimen volume
- 1-2 mL
- Stability
- Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
What This Test Measures
The test analyzes a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. It measures total protein and albumin concentrations and separates proteins by electrophoresis to look at their distribution. It also checks for distinct bands of IgG, which are antibodies produced by the immune system.
Why It May Be Ordered
Your clinician may order this test when there are symptoms suggesting inflammation or immune activity in the central nervous system, such as vision changes, weakness, numbness, or other neurological symptoms. It is often used as part of the workup for conditions like multiple sclerosis or other inflammatory disorders.
How the Sample Is Collected
CSF is collected by a lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap. A small needle is placed in the lower back to draw fluid. The procedure is usually brief, and your care team will explain how to prepare and what to expect.
Understanding the Results
Results are interpreted together with your symptoms and other tests. The presence of abnormal IgG bands or unusual protein patterns can suggest immune activity in the central nervous system, but results alone do not diagnose a specific disease. Your clinician will explain what your results mean in your situation.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
CSF protein electrophoresis and IgG band analysis are important tools for evaluating inflammatory and immune-mediated conditions of the central nervous system. Abnormal findings may support further testing and help guide diagnosis, but they must be interpreted alongside clinical history, neurological examination, imaging, and other laboratory results.
Short name
CSF Protein Electrophoresis and IgG Bands
Frequently asked questions
Does this test diagnose multiple sclerosis?
Is a lumbar puncture painful?
Do I need to fast before this 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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy