Albumin CSF Test Overview

Healthcare professionals use the AlbuminCSFtest as a diagnostic tool to determine albumin content in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to assess blood-brain barrier functionality. Abnormal albumin levels within CSF fluids can indicate neurological diseases together with infections or central nervous system damage.

A properly functioning blood-brain barrier bars every substance from entering the CSF except vital substances. A weakened blood-brain barrier allows albumin levels to rise, which might show the existence of health difficulties underneath. The test is generally useful for diagnosing any diseases related to affecting the permeability of the central nervous system.

Why Is an Albumin CSF Test Prescribed?

Medical practitioners use this test to diagnose neurological conditions as well as infections along with blood-brain barrier breakdown in patients. The diagnosis of meningitis and encephalitis requires this test since these conditions modify CSF structure. The test enables doctors to check for autoimmune conditions..

Healthcare professionals might need to perform the albumin CSF test to evaluate the extent of injuries that affect the brain and spinal cord of their patients. It becomes easy to observe the progression of Parkinson's disease alongside Alzheimer's disease.

Components of an Albumin CSF Test

The albumin CSF test compares albumin concentrations in CSF and blood serum and also calculates the albumin quotient (CSF albumin/serum albumin). The normal quotient is usually below nine, indicating an intact blood-brain barrier. A high value indicates more permeability, usually caused by trauma, infection, or neurological problems.

Procedure and Prerequisites

The albumin CSF test includes a lumbar puncture, which is also referred to as a spinal tap, to collect the cerebrospinal fluid. While testing, the patient usually lies on the side or sits in a curled position to expose the lower back.

When the area is cleared with antiseptic, a local anesthetic is injected to reduce pain. A medical professional inserts a thin needle through the spinal canal to collect small amounts of CSF, which is placed into sterile test containers.

In most situations, patients do not need fasting before the test except when the doctor's instructions require a different course of action. The patient needs to report all medications taken to their doctor, with special emphasis on blood thinners, since these drugs raise bleeding risks. To know more about the albumin CSF test procedure and other things, you can connect with experts at Aster Labs.

Albumin CSF Test in Thrissur

Albumin CSF Test in Thrissur

A0035

Daily

No Special Preparation Required

24 Hours

₹637

Parameters

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