Table of Contents
What should I order for CSF?
After drawing the CSF sample, do the following with the tubes:
- Tube 1 – Send to the chemistry laboratory for glucose and protein.
- Tube 2 – Send to the hematology laboratory for a cell count with differential.
- Tube 3 – Send to the microbiology and immunology laboratory.
What is CSF routine examination?
A CSF analysis is a group of tests that look at your cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose diseases and conditions that affect the brain and spinal cord. Other names: Spinal Fluid Analysis, CSF Analysis.
What is the common method of collection of CSF?
CSF is usually obtained through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). During the procedure, a needle is inserted usually between the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae and the CSF fluid is collected for testing.
What is the most preferred diagnostic study for CSF?
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.
What labs are needed for a lumbar puncture?
The fluid is tested for red and white blood cells, protein, and glucose (sugar). The clarity and color of the fluid are also checked and it is tested to see whether bacteria, viruses, or abnormal cells are present. Excess CSF may also be removed in people who have an overproduction or decreased absorption of the fluid.
How many tubes are collected for CSF?
4 tubes
Cerebrospinal fluid specimens
| Default tube numbers for type of testing | ||
|---|---|---|
| Number of tubes submitted | 4 tubes | 2 tubes* |
| Chemistry (glucose, lactate, LDH, protein, etc) | 3 | 1 |
| Cultures (bacterial, viral) | 2 | 2 |
| Cell Count (appearance, color, RBC, nucleated cells) | 1 and 4 | 2 |
How do I collect my CSF analysis?
A lumbar puncture, or “spinal tap,” is used to collect CSF for culture. A physician will insert a needle into the space between two vertebrae in the lower spine. The needle will then be moved carefully into the CSF-filled space surrounding the spinal cord.
Why is CSF analysis done?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is a group of laboratory tests that measure chemicals in the cerebrospinal fluid. CSF is a clear fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. The tests may look for proteins, sugar (glucose), and other substances.
What is CSF and how is it collected?
CSF protects the brain and spinal cord from injury by acting like a liquid cushion. CSF is usually obtained through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). During the procedure, a needle is inserted usually between the 3rd and 4th lumbar vertebrae and the CSF fluid is collected for testing.
How many tubes do you need for CSF?
four
Ideally, CSF specimens should consist of these four (4) tubes each containing 2-3 ml of fluid. This will provide enough sample to perform multiple tests with adequate volume for repeat analysis and add-on tests.
How is CSF diagnosed?
CT myelography. This test is considered the gold standard for diagnosing and locating CSF leaks. It uses a CT scan and a contrast dye to locate CSF leaks anywhere in the skull base. It provides the most precise location of a CSF leak and helps to determine the most appropriate treatment plan.
Why do you collect 4 tubes when performing lumbar puncture?
Hematology analysis is typically performed on the last tube collected (3 or 4) to assure that any peripheral blood that may have contaminated the sample during the lumbar puncture has cleared.
Why do you follow the order of draw?
3/19/2019. Blood samples must be drawn by phlebotomists in a specific order to avoid cross-contamination of the sample by additives found in different collection tubes. Phlebotomy order of draw is the same for specimens collected by syringe, tube holder, or into tubes preevacuated at the time of collection.
How much CSF can you collect?
Once the needle is properly positioned, the practitioner measures the pressure of your CSF and collects about 30 to 40 ml of the fluid.
Why is CSF important in diagnosis?
CSF analysis can detect primary tumors in the brain or spine. It can also detect metastatic cancers that have spread to your CNS from other body parts.
How many bottles do you need for a lumbar puncture?
Equipment needed for Lumbar Puncture 1-5 CSF Specimen Bottles 6-7 Serum Specimen Bottles, 8 Serum glucose bottle (fluoride oxalate) 9 Syringe for local anaesthetic 10 Introducer for spinal needle (not always required) 11-12 19G and 25G hypodermic needles to draw up and inject anaesthetic 13 Whitacre 22G spinal needle ( …
How is CSF treated?
For spinal CSF leaks that do not respond to bed rest and other conservative treatments, an epidural blood patch or epidural patching with fibrin glue are treatment options. An epidural blood patch involves injecting the patient’s own blood into the spinal canal.