Measurement of cerebrospinal fluid protein is unnecessary in children with leukemia

To determine the incidence and importance of abnormal cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) protein in children with acute leukemia, we performed a retrospective chart review. On 160 pediatric patients a total of 2,172 LPs were performed (median per patient = 15; range 1–38). Overall, 314 (14%) of CSF protein measurements were abnormal: 141 (7%) were abnormally low ( 45 mg/dL). In no case did an abnormal CSF protein impact patient management. We conclude that routine measurement of CSF protein is not indicated in children with acute leukemia. Pediatr Blood Cancer 2008;51:428–430. © 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc.