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CSF analysis

Contents of this page:

Illustrations

CSF chemistry
CSF chemistry

Alternative Names    Return to top

CSF chemistry; Cerebrospinal fluid analysis

Definition    Return to top

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is a laboratory test to measure proteins, sugar (glucose), and other chemicals in the fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord.

How the Test is Performed    Return to top

A sample of CSF is needed. A spinal tap is the most common way to collect this sample. For information on this procedure, see the article on lumbar puncture.

Other methods for collecting CSF are rarely used, but may be recommended in some cases. See also:

After the sample is taken, it is sent to the laboratory for evaluation.

How to Prepare for the Test    Return to top

See: Lumbar puncture

How the Test Will Feel    Return to top

See: Lumbar puncture

Why the Test is Performed    Return to top

Analysis of CSF can help detect certain conditions or diseases. Specifically, the test looks at the following in a sample of CSF:

Normal Results    Return to top

Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.

What Abnormal Results Mean    Return to top

An abnormal CSF analysis may be due to:

Risks    Return to top

For information regarding risks of a spinal tap, see: Lumbar puncture

References    Return to top

Griggs RC, Józefowicz RF, Aminoff MJ. Approach to the patient with neurologic disease. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007: chap 418.

Update Date: 11/13/2008

Updated by: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine; and Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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