Protein (CSF)
The spinal fluid normally contains very little protein since serum proteins are large molecules that do not cross the blood-brain barrier. Most of the protein that is normally present is albumin.
A raised CSF protein concentration is indicative of either increased permeability of the blood brain barrier or increased synthesis of proteins within the cerebrospinal canal by inflammatory or other invading cells. Mild protein elevation may be caused by viral meningitis, neurosyphilis, subdural haematoma, cerebral thrombosis, brain tumour, multiple sclerosis (rarely >1.00 g/L)
Moderate or pronounced elevation may be caused by acute bacterial meningitis, tuberculous meningitis, spinal cord tumour, cerebral haemorrhage, Guillain-Barre syndrome.
Low CSF protein levels are indicative of rapid CSF production. Blood stained samples can provide falsely elevated results.
| Tube | 09 (CSF) - Plain CSF |
|---|---|
| ID | Tests&Tubes0102 |
| Additional Information | Also see information for CSF glucose and CSF Xanthochromia. |
| Turn Around | A&E: N/A Day Case: 6 Hours In-Patient: 6 Hours Out-Patient: N/A GP: N/A |
| Send to | Blood Sciences Cross Site |
| Contact | For further details please contact Leeds Pathology customer services: leedsth-tr.pathologycustomerservice@nhs.net. |
| Collection Con | Minimum volume: 500µl CSF / Fluid Instructions for Lab Staff: Samples must be manually centrifuged before analysis |
| Sample REQ | CSF |
| Ref. Range Notes | Blood Sciences reference ranges are available through the useful information and links page: https://www.leedsth.nhs.uk/a-z-of-services/pathology/blood-sciences/useful-information-and-links/ |
| Units | g/L |
| Telepath | PRTC2L |
| ICE Codes | LPRTC |
