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HelpTest Code LAB195 CSF Protein
Clinical System Name
CSF Protein
Synonyms
LAB195
PROT CSF
Sample Requirements
Specimen: CSF
Container(s): CSF Tube, Sterile Screw-Capped Container, Sterile Screw-Capped Tube, Syringe
Preferred Vol: 1 mL
Minimum Vol: 0.25 mL
Note: Note collection type on requisition and container (e.g. "LP" for CSF lumbar puncture.) Send to the lab immediately (within 1 hour) for accurate results.
Processing Instructions
Reject due to: Age of Specimen (give to Core Lab for determination)
Spin: Y
Aliquot: Y
Storage location: Core 5 Chemistry Refrigerator
Off-site collection: Specimen should be centrifuged within 2 hours of collection. Spin CSF and transfer supernatant to sterile plastic tube and refrigerate or freeze.
Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| CSF | RT |
≤ 4 h |
| CSF | 2-8 C |
≤ 3 d |
| CSF | -20 C or -70 C |
≤ 180 d |
Availability
| STAT | Performed | TAT |
|---|---|---|
| Y | 24/7 | 1 h |
Performing Laboratory
Seattle Children's Laboratory
Department
Department: Core Chemistry
Phone Number: 206-987-2617 (Client Services)
CPT Codes
84157
Methodology
Method: Colorimetric method by Vitros 4600
Analytical Volume: 0.02 mL + 0.03 mL dead space
Reference Range
| Age | mG/dL |
| < 1 m | Up to 120 |
| 1 - 3 m | Up to 75 |
| 3 m - adult | Up to 40 |
Description
Diseases that interrupt the integrity of the capillary endothelial barrier can lead to an increase in total CSF protein. CSF protein is generally increased in all types of meningitis, cerebral infarction, brain abscess, meningovascular syphilis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, some brain tumors, trauma to the brain, some cases of multiple sclerosis, encephalomyelitis, and degenerative neurologic diseases. A decreased CSF protein may occur in water intoxication, CSF leak (CSF rhinorrhea or otorrhea), and hyperthyroidism.