CSF analysis

A sample of CSF is needed. A lumbar puncture , also called a spinal tap, is the most common way to collect this sample. Less common ways to take a fluid sample include: Cisternal puncture Removal of CSF from a tube that is already in the CSF, such as a shunt, ventricular drain, or pain pump Ventricular puncture After…

Your provider will tell you how to prepare for lumbar puncture . Make sure to let them know all of the medicines you are taking in case any adjustment is needed.

Analysis of CSF can help detect certain conditions and diseases. All of the following can be, but are not always, measured in a sample of CSF: Antibodies and DNA of common viruses Bacteria (including that which causes syphilis, using a VDRL test ) Cell count Chloride Cryptococcal antigen Glucose Glutamine Lactate…

Normal results include: Antibodies and DNA of common viruses: None Bacteria: No bacteria grows in a lab culture Cancerous cells: No cancerous cells present Cell count: 0 to 5 white blood cells (all mononuclear) and 0 red blood cells Chloride: 110 to 125 mEq/L (110 to 125 mmol/L) Fungus: None Gamma globulin: 3% to 12%…

An abnormal CSF analysis result may be due to many different causes, including: Cancer Encephalitis (such as Herpes simplex, West Nile, and Eastern Equine Encephalitis virus) Hepatic encephalopathy High blood sugar (hyperglycemia) Infection Inflammation Reye syndrome Meningitis due to bacteria, fungus, tuberculosis,…

Euerle BD. Spinal puncture and cerebrospinal fluid examination. In: Roberts JR, Custalow CB, Thomsen TW, eds. Roberts and Hedges' Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine and Acute Care . 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2019:chap 60. Rosenberg GA. Brain edema and disorders of cerebrospinal fluid circulation. In:…