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Test Code
CSFE
Test Name
Protein Electrophoresis, CSF
CPT Codes
84157, 84166
Included Tests
  • Alpha-2-Globulin, CSF
  • M-Spike
  • Protein, Total, CSF
  • Pre-Albumin, CSF
  • Gamma Globulin, CSF
  • Alpha-1-Globulin, CSF
  • Beta Globulin, CSF
  • Albumin, CSF
Expected Turnaround Time
4 - 7 days
Clinical Utility

Quantitate CSF protein fractions; aid in the diagnosis of inflammatory and demyelinating disease of CNS, although routine CSF protein electrophoresis is highly insensitive and nonspecific for the presence of multiple sclerosis (MS). Routine CSF protein electrophoresis has no role in screening for demyelinating diseases (eg, MS).
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen Type: Cerebrospinal Fluid

 

Collection Container: Sterile, Non-Additive Container (CSF) 

Desired Specimen Volume: 2 mL
Collection Instructions
  1. Collect CSF specimen via lumbar puncture.
  2. The third tube of a routinely obtained three-tube set of CSF should be used for protein electrophoretic study.
Processing and Submission Instructions
  1.  Transfer 2 mL of CSF into a sterile clear aliquot tube (screw cap).
Transport Instructions

Transport to the laboratory frozen. 
Stability Requirements

Refrigerated

3 days

Frozen

1 month
Causes for Rejection
  •  Gross hemolysis
Methodology
Quantitative Electrophoresis
Reference Intervals

See patient report.
Alternate Names
  • CSF Electrophoresis
  • Electrophoresis, CSF
  • Globulins, CSF
  • Spinal Fluid Electrophoresis
Reference Lab
Labcorp Of America Holdings
Testing Schedule
Monday-Friday
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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