Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Plain universal container Fluoride oxalate tube

Minimum volume required

1 mL CSF

Special requirements

Preferably tap #2 Do not send CSF samples via the pod system; deliver by hand to specimen reception

Patient preparation

None

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours.

Reference range

0.15 – 0.4 g/L (Source: Abbott Diagnostics)

Clinical guidance

CSF normally contains very little protein as serum proteins are too large to cross the blood-brain barrier. Elevated levels of CSF protein occur as a result of increased permeability of the blood-CSF barrier or with increased local synthesis of immunoglobulins. Examination of CSF is most often performed in the investigation of suspected meningitis. Please refer to LabTestsOnline UK to learn more about CSF analysis. https://labtestsonline.org.uk/tests/csf-analysis

Notes

Interference from haemolysis.