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Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Protein Electrophoresis

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

This test measures the different types of proteins found in your cerebrospinal fluid, which surrounds your brain and spinal cord. It helps identify abnormalities in protein distribution that may indicate conditions like multiple sclerosis, infections, or other neurological disorders.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting brain and spinal fluid protein levels."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
107280-0
Short code
XR and Flr Skull Views
Synonyms
XR and Flr Skull Views
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
xr-rf
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

Electrophoresis separates proteins in your CSF based on their size and electrical charge. This process helps detect abnormal protein patterns, such as those seen in conditions like multiple sclerosis (where immunoglobulin G [IgG] may appear in higher amounts) or infections (where acute-phase proteins like albumin may change).

Why Might You Need This Test?

Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neurological issues, or a history of conditions affecting the brain or spinal fluid. It’s also used to monitor treatment progress in certain neurological diseases.

Common Conditions It Helps Diagnose

This test can help identify conditions like multiple sclerosis, meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or certain types of brain tumors. Abnormal protein bands or patterns may suggest inflammation, infection, or other neurological disorders.

How Is the Sample Collected?

A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). A doctor inserts a needle into your lower back to draw the fluid into a test tube. This is usually done in a hospital setting with sedation if needed.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance: How Results Are Interpreted

Short name

CSF Protein Electrophoresis

Frequently asked questions

How long will it take to get my results?
Results are typically available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times. Your doctor will discuss the findings with you during your follow-up visit.
What do abnormal results mean?
Abnormal results may indicate an underlying neurological condition, such as an infection, inflammation, or a tumor. Your doctor will review the pattern of proteins with you and may recommend further testing or treatment.
Is this test painful?
The procedure itself may cause mild discomfort or soreness at the injection site, but most people describe it as similar to a mild needle prick. You may experience a slight headache or backache afterward, which usually improves within a few days.
  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