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Tyrosine in Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of tyrosine, an amino acid, found in your cerebrospinal fluid (the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord).

Quick summary

["Tyrosine levels in CSF may help assess metabolic or neurological conditions."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
22642-3
Short code
Tyrosine CSF-sCnc
Synonyms
Tyrosine CSF-sCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
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 Might This Test Be Ordered?

Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like headaches, seizures, or neurological issues that could be linked to metabolic disorders affecting amino acids. It may also be part of investigations for conditions like aminoaciduria (excess amino acids in urine) or certain genetic metabolic diseases.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small sample of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then analyzed in a lab to measure tyrosine concentration.

What Does the Result Mean?

Results are typically compared to reference ranges for healthy individuals, but specific ranges can vary by lab. Elevated or low levels may suggest underlying metabolic or neurological conditions that require further evaluation.

Common Conditions Monitored or Diagnosed

Tyrosine CSF testing is often used to diagnose or monitor conditions such as tyrosinemia (a rare genetic disorder affecting tyrosine metabolism) or other amino acid metabolic disorders.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical significance: Abnormal tyrosine levels in CSF can indicate metabolic imbalances, neurological complications, or genetic disorders affecting amino acid processing. Early detection may guide treatment and prevent complications.

Short name

Tyrosine CSF

Frequently asked questions

What causes abnormal tyrosine levels in CSF?
Abnormal tyrosine levels may result from genetic metabolic disorders, certain neurological conditions, or conditions affecting amino acid transport in the brain. Always discuss symptoms and test results with your healthcare provider.
How often should I have this test?
The frequency depends on your medical condition and treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will determine how often this test should be repeated, if at all.
Can lifestyle changes affect tyrosine levels in CSF?
While lifestyle factors like diet may influence amino acid metabolism in the body, CSF tyrosine levels are primarily assessed for diagnostic purposes and are less commonly affected by daily habits unless a metabolic disorder is present.
  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