Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Mass Concentration
Measures alpha-aminobutyric acid in cerebrospinal fluid as part of a selected evaluation for nervous-system or inherited metabolic disorders.
["This specialized test measures an amino acid in spinal fluid and is usually interpreted alongside other clinical and laboratory findings."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 1786-3
- Short code
- A-Aminobutyr CSF-mCnc
- Synonyms
- A-Aminobutyr CSF-mCnc
- Category
- liver
- 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
What is this test?
This test measures the concentration of alpha-aminobutyric acid, an amino acid, in cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid surrounds the brain and spinal cord and can be analyzed when certain neurologic or metabolic conditions are being evaluated.
Why might I need this test?
This specialized test may be ordered when symptoms suggest a nervous-system disorder or an inherited problem with amino acid metabolism. It is generally interpreted with other laboratory results, imaging, genetics, and the patient's symptoms rather than as a stand-alone diagnosis.
How is the test performed?
A clinician collects a small amount of cerebrospinal fluid through a lumbar puncture, commonly called a spinal tap. The laboratory then measures the amount of alpha-aminobutyric acid in the sample.
How do I prepare for the test?
No special diet or fasting period is usually required. Follow your clinician's instructions about medications and tell the care team if you have bleeding problems, take blood thinners, or have a history of back or spinal problems.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal alpha-aminobutyric acid concentration may reflect an altered amino acid metabolism or a condition affecting the nervous system. Results can also vary with collection conditions and other medical factors, so an isolated abnormal value does not establish a diagnosis. Interpretation should be performed by the ordering clinician using the laboratory's reference information and the broader clinical picture.
Short name
CSF Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine amino acid blood test?
How is cerebrospinal fluid collected?
Does one abnormal result confirm a metabolic or neurologic disorder?
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.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy