Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid, Cerebrospinal Fluid — Substance Concentration
Measures alpha-aminobutyric acid in cerebrospinal fluid to help evaluate amino acid metabolism and certain metabolic or neurologic disorders.
["This test measures alpha-aminobutyric acid in spinal fluid; results are best interpreted by your clinician alongside other findings."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 26586-8
- Short code
- A-Aminobutyr CSF-sCnc
- Synonyms
- A-Aminobutyr CSF-sCnc
- 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?
Alpha-aminobutyric acid is an amino acid. This test measures its concentration in cerebrospinal fluid, the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It is a specialized test that may be used to evaluate suspected disturbances in amino acid metabolism.
Why might I need this test?
Your clinician may order this test when symptoms suggest an inherited metabolic condition, a problem with amino acid processing, or certain neurologic disorders. It may also be used as part of a broader evaluation of unexplained developmental, seizure, or movement symptoms.
How is the test performed?
Cerebrospinal fluid is usually collected by lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap. A clinician inserts a thin needle into the space around the spinal cord and removes a small amount of fluid for laboratory analysis.
How do I prepare for the test?
There is usually no special preparation, but your clinician may provide specific instructions for this uncommon test. Tell the healthcare team about any bleeding disorders, blood-thinning medicines, back problems, or previous reactions to local anesthetic before the procedure.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
An abnormal alpha-aminobutyric acid concentration may indicate altered amino acid metabolism or, depending on the clinical setting, an inherited or acquired metabolic disorder. Because changes can be nonspecific, the result should be interpreted with symptoms, medical history, other laboratory tests, and sometimes genetic testing.
Short name
CSF Alpha-Aminobutyric Acid
Frequently asked questions
Is this the same as a routine amino acid blood test?
Is a lumbar puncture painful?
Can I interpret this result on my own?
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