Protein, Total, Cerebrospinal Fluid

See Also Protein, Total, Serum

Increased CSF protein levels are seen in diseases leading to “Influx Syndrome” (i.e. breakdown of the blood-CNS barrier), such as in meningitis and encephalomyelitis. Excessive concentrations of total CSF proteins are seen in Froin’s syndrome (protein > 500 mg/dL), clotted CSF specimens, xanthochromia, or in the presence of free blood. In premature infants, values > 130 mg/dL may occasionally be observed.

1 ml CSF Stability: 1 Day at 15-25 °C 6 Days at 2-8 °C > 1 Year at (-15)-(-25) °C

Centrifuge before analysis. Avoid haemolysed and blood-contaminated samples.

15-45 mg/dL 0.15-0.45 g/L