Description
Why It’s Done:
The CSF Protein Test is done to help diagnose or monitor several conditions, such as:
• Multiple sclerosis (MS): Elevated protein levels may indicate an immune response in the CNS.
• Meningitis: Inflammation caused by infection (bacterial, viral, or fungal) can raise protein levels.
• Guillain-Barré syndrome: A condition where the immune system attacks peripheral nerves, often reflected by an increase in CSF protein.
• Neurological diseases: Conditions like encephalitis, neuroinflammatory disorders, and CNS tumors.
• Blood-CSF barrier disruption: Conditions that damage the barrier can cause protein leakage into the CSF.
Symptoms that may prompt the test include:
• Severe headache
• Stiff neck
• Nausea or vomiting
• Altered mental state
• Seizures
• Weakness or paralysis (especially in the limbs)
Preparation:
• The CSF protein test requires a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to collect a sample of CSF.
• No special preparation (such as fasting) is required.
• Inform your healthcare provider if you are on any medications, especially blood thinners, as they may affect the procedure.
• After the procedure, you may need to lie flat for a period of time to prevent post-lumbar puncture headaches.
• If you have recently had a spinal injury or surgery, inform your healthcare provider before undergoing a lumbar puncture.
