Beta-2 transferrin is a carbohydrate-free (desialated) isoform of transferrin, which is almost only found in the cerebrospinal fluid. It is not found in blood, mucus or tears, thus making it a specific marker of cerebrospinal fluid, applied as an assay in cases where cerebrospinal fluid leakage is suspected.

References

• How Useful is Glucose Detection in Diagnosing Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak? The Rational Use of CT and Beta-2 Transferrin Assay in Detection of Cerebrospinal Fluid Fistula - Asian Journal of Surgery. 2004 Jan;27(1):39-42.

Chemical pathology | Neurology