Total Protein (CSF)

General Information

Most CSF protein originates by diffusion from plasma across the blood-CSF barrier. Elevated levels of protein occur as a result of increased permeability of the blood-CSF barrier or with increased local synthesis of immunoglobulins. Examination of CSF is most often performed in the investigation of suspected meningitis. In meningitis there is secretion of IgG into the CSF but this has little effect on the total amount of protein. However, meningeal inflammation may lead to an increase in capillary permeability and a marked increase in CSF protein content.