Introduction to Cerebrospinal Fluids

Chemical Substances Present in CSF

The following table lists some of the chemicals present in CSF, and their concentrations:

ChemicalLevel
sodium 136.0 - 150.0 m Eq/L
potassium 2.3 - 2.7 m Eq/L
magnesium2.4 - 3.0 m Eq/L
protein2 - 4 mg/dL (normally diffuses across blood-brain barrier)
glucose 45.0 - 60.0 mg/dL
calcium2.1 - 2.7 m Eq/dL
cholesterolpresent in small amounts
creatinine 0.5 - 1.2 mg/dL
lactic acid dehyrdogenase (LDH) present in small amounts
phosphorus (inorganic)1.0 - 2.0 mg/dL
urea6.0 - 16.0 mg/dL
uric acid 0.5 - 3.0 mg/dL

Meet OSHA laboratory safety and compliance requirements with over 40 online courses for clinical laboratories. Learn more.

Cerebrospinal Fluid course details »

Learn more about laboratory continuing education for ASCP, AMT, NCA, and state renewal and recertification requirements »

Get information on OSHA laboratory safety courses for clinical and medical laboratories »