Beta-2 Transferrin
Also known as: B2TRNSF
Use
Beta-2 Transferrin testing aids in the diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Detection of a beta-2 transferrin band by immunofixation is indicative of the presence of CSF in the specimen. This is useful in the differential diagnosis of CSF otorrhea or CSF rhinorrhea. Beta-2 transferrin is a CSF-specific protein not detected in normal serum, tears, saliva, sputum, nasal, or aural fluid, making it a specific marker for CSF leakage.
Special Instructions
Beta-2 transferrin may also be found in aqueous humor. Rare allelic variants of transferrin could lead to false positives, hence simultaneous analysis of serum and CSF from the same individual is recommended to rule out these rare false positives.
Limitations
Rare allelic variants may produce false positive results. The test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA but is performed in a CLIA certified laboratory. There can be increased concentrations of an asialo isoform with beta 2 transferrin mobility in patients with certain conditions like congenital disorders of glycosylation, liver damage, neuropsychiatric diseases, and rectal cancer, which may interfere with results.
New York Approved
Methodology
Immunoassay (IHC)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 13876-8
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Container
Sterile container (test tube, microtube, syringe without needle)
Collection Instructions
Submit aural or nasal fluid in sterile container. If using a syringe, remove needle and replace with cap before submitting. If direct collection is not feasible, use a plain cotton swab or gauze.
Storage Instructions
Frozen (preferred) or refrigerated.
Causes for Rejection
Specimens grossly contaminated with blood, specimens with additives, CSF fluid.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 2 weeks |
| Refrigerated | 2 weeks |
| Frozen | 2 weeks |