Quiz 4: Protein and the CNS

Question 1

Protein CSF Range

Answer 1

15-45 mg/dL (10-40 yrs old)

Question 2

Causes of Protein in CSF

Answer 2

Abnormal level CSF protein indicates increased permeability of blood/brain barrier in meningitis (viral or bacterial), trauma, multiple sclerosis, obstruction, neoplasm, disk herniation, cerebral infarction.

• Albumin is reference protein for permeability because it is not present in CSF
• Normal CSF albumin/serum albumin ratio is less than 2.7-7.3; if increased, albumin is present from damaged brain barrier

Question 3

Multiple Sclerosis EP Band Pattern

Answer 3

• Myelin basic protein present in CSF indicates demyelination (breakdown).
• In multiple sclerosis, additional bands are observed in CSF; abnormal discrete bands, called oligoclonal bands.

Question 4

Testing for Protein in CSF

Answer 4

Sulfosalicyclic ACid, Trichloroacetic Acid, Benzethonium chloride, and Coomassie Brilliant Blue