Albumin, Spinal Fluid
Use
This test is useful for assessing the permeability of the blood-brain barrier. Elevated albumin levels in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may indicate a compromised blood-brain barrier. This test provides a quantification of albumin concentration in spinal fluid via nephelometry, which reflects the general integrity of the blood-brain barrier.
Special Instructions
Submit CSF from collection vial number 2 if possible, and label the specimen as CSF. A standalone spinal fluid albumin concentration has limited clinical utility; it may provide a general assessment of the intactness of the blood-brain barrier.
Limitations
Cerebrospinal fluid albumin has limited utility as a standalone test. Elevated albumin concentration should be compared with serum albumin concentration to get a more comprehensive assessment of blood-brain barrier permeability.
New York Approved
Methodology
Automated Analyzer (Clinical Chemistry)
Biomarkers
LOINC Codes
- 1746-7
- 1746-7
Result Turnaround Time
1-3 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
1 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Sterile vial
Collection Instructions
Submit CSF from collection vial number 2, label specimen as CSF.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis OK
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | 14 days |
| Refrigerated | 28 days |
| Frozen | 28 days |