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CSF total protein
Definition:
CSF total protein is a test to determine the amount of protein in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF is a clear fluid that circulates in the space surrounding the spinal cord. An abnormal protein level in the CSF suggests that there is an abnormal process occurring in the central nervous system. How the test is performed:
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A sample of CSF is obtained, usually by lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The cerebrospinal fluid is then analyzed in the lab. How the test will feel:
Patients will be asked to either sit up or lie down on their sides with the back parallel to the bed and the chin tucked under and the legs curled in the fetal position. The healthcare provider will use the bony protrusions of the hip to determine the most appropriate location to remove fluid. This is usually at what is known as the L3-L4 vertebral level. Subsequently iodine will be used to clean off the area and a sterile sheet will be draped over the surrounding area. In infants and small children, EMLA cream, a local anesthetic cream will be used to numb the skin and will be applied about 1 hour prior to the procedure. In adults, lidocaine will be injected under the skin initially, and then deeper such that tissue beneath the skin will also be numbed. A thin 20-gauge needle will then be inserted into the interspace between the vertebra. Depending on how much subcutaneous tissue there is, this may require shallow or deeper penetration of the needle. There may be an audible "pop" when the needle penetrates the dura (membrane that surrounds the spinal cord and encases the fluid). At that point there will be fluid flowing out of the needle and this will be collected in plastic containers. Under normal circumstances, the opening pressure will be measured with a manometer and then about 20-30 cc of spinal fluid will be collected and sent for evaluation under the microscope.
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