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1mehistcsfmcnc

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

This test measures the level of 1-methylhistidine in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which helps doctors evaluate muscle metabolism and inflammatory conditions affecting the central nervous system.

Quick summary

{"1-Methylhistidine is a byproduct of muscle protein breakdown","CSF sample is collected through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap)","Elevated levels may indicate muscle damage, inflammatory conditions, or metabolic disorders","Results help doctors assess neurological and muscular health","This is a specialized chemistry test ordered by neurologists or specialists"}

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13377-7
Short code
1-METH-CSF
Synonyms
1Me-hist CSF-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile polypropylene transport tube (plain red-top or equivalent)
Units
N/A
Ref low
0
Ref high
3
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
≥ 0 years
Method
Liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS)
CPT
82127
SNOMED
314637006
Specimen volume
Minimum 0.5 mL; preferably 1-2 mL of CSF
Stability
Refrigerated (2-8°C): up to 72 hours; Frozen (-20°C or below): several weeks. Avoid repeated freeze-thaw cycles.
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
48–168 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

The 1-methylhistidine test measures the amount of 1-methylhistidine in your cerebrospinal fluid. 1-Methylhistidine is a natural compound produced when muscle proteins break down. While it is normally found in small amounts in CSF, elevated levels can signal certain health conditions that affect muscle metabolism or cause inflammation in the body.

How is the sample collected?

This test requires a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, which is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap). During this procedure, a healthcare provider inserts a thin needle between the bones in your lower spine to collect a small amount of CSF. The fluid is then sent to a laboratory for analysis. You may experience some discomfort or back pain during and after the procedure.

Why might I need this test?

Your doctor may order this test if they suspect you have conditions affecting muscle metabolism, inflammatory diseases, or certain neurological disorders. It is often part of a broader chemistry panel to help diagnose and monitor conditions that may affect the central nervous system or muscle tissues.

How should I prepare?

No special preparation is typically needed for this test. However, you should inform your doctor about any medications you are taking, as certain drugs may affect the test results. Follow your doctor's instructions regarding any specific preparations before the lumbar puncture procedure.

Reference range

Reference range: 0-3 μmol/L (typical). Normal CSF 1-methylhistidine concentrations are typically very low due to minimal protein content in cerebrospinal fluid. Interpretation should be made in context of clinical presentation and complete amino acid profile.N/A

Specimen: csf

Patient should lie flat for 30-60 minutes after lumbar puncture to minimize post-lumbar puncture headache. No fasting required. Inform patient of procedure risks including headache, infection, and rare nerve damage.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Frequently asked questions

Is the lumbar puncture procedure painful?
You may feel some discomfort or pressure during the lumbar puncture. Your doctor will use a local anesthetic to numb the area, which helps reduce pain. Some people experience a headache after the procedure, which can usually be managed with rest and hydration.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few days to a week, depending on the laboratory. Your doctor will contact you with the results or discuss them at your follow-up appointment.
Are there any risks associated with this test?
The main risks of lumbar puncture include headache, back pain, bleeding, or rare cases of infection. Serious complications are uncommon. Your healthcare provider will monitor you closely and provide instructions on what to do if you experience any unusual symptoms.
What do abnormal results mean?
Abnormal results (typically elevated levels) may suggest increased muscle breakdown, inflammatory conditions, or metabolic disorders. However, results must be interpreted by your doctor in context with your other test results and clinical condition. Your doctor will explain what your specific results mean for your health.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus - Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)Source
  2. 2
    Mayo Clinic Laboratories - 1-MethylhistidineSource

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