Test Overview
Nephelometry
Detection of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in other body fluids, such as nasal or ear fluid.
Beta-trace protein concentration <5 mg/L is negative for cerebrospinal fluid
Beta-trace protein concentration 5-7 mg/L is indeterminate for presence of cerebrospinal fluid
Beta-trace protein concentration >7 mg/L is consistent with the presence of cerebrospinal fluid
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
Test Details
1 - 3 days
- CSF in other body fluids
- Otorrhea (ear fluid leak)
- Rhinorrhea (nasal fluid leak)
Specimen Requirements
Collect nasal or other body fluid specimen in clean tube or container. Indicate specimen source, and include whether the source is from the right or left side of the body, if applicable. If direct collection is not feasible, specimen may be collected using a plain cotton swab or gauze. If gauze is used to collect specimen, circle area on the gauze where specimen was collected and place cotton swab or gauze in as small a container as possible (eg, plain test tube or collection container); do not collect specimen with a culture swab; do not add any liquid to the swab or gauze.
0.5 mL fluid
Additional Information
Test sent to Mayo Clinic Laboratories.