ARUP's Laboratory Test Directory

Protein Electrophoresis, CSF : 0050590

Mnemonic: CSF ELECT

Methodology: Quantitative Electrophoresis
Performed: Mon, Wed, Fri
Reported: 1-5 days
Specimen Required: Collect: CSF.

Specimen Preparation: Transport 1 mL CSF. (Min: 0.5 mL)

Storage/Transport Temperature: Refrigerated.

Stability (collection to initiation of testing): Ambient: 8 hours; Refrigerated: 1 week; Frozen: 1 month
Reference Interval:
Total Protein: 15-45 mg/dL                      Alpha-2: 0.0-5.4 mg/dL
Pre-albumin: 0.0-3.1 mg/dL                      Beta: 0.0-8.1 mg/dL
Albumin: 8.4-34.2 mg/dL                          Gamma: 0.0-5.4 mg/dL
Alpha-1: 0.0-3.1 mg/dL
Note: CSF electrophoresis may be useful in the diagnosis of tumors in the central nervous system or neurological illness. Oligoclonal Band Profile (ARUP test code 0080440) or Myelin Basic Protein (ARUP test code 0080515) may be more appropriate for patients with suspected multiple sclerosis. For the evaluation of blood brain barrier integrity, Immunoglobulin G, CSF Index (ARUP test code 0050676), included in the Oligoclonal Band Profile test, may be useful.
CPT Code(s): 84157; 84166
Cross References: Electrophoresis, Protein (Protein Electrophoresis, CSF)