Cerebrospinal Fluid
Tests:Cerebrospinal Fluid
Overview | |
|---|---|
| Department | Microbiology |
| Test Code | CSF |
| Synonyms | Cerebrospinal fluid
CSF cytology Cytology - Cerebrospinal fluid Cytology - CSF |
| Availability | Monday - Sunday, testing routinely available out of hours |
| Turnaround Time | Microscopy, Glucose, and Protein 1 – 2 hours
Culture 1-2 days |
| Stability - Add test | |
Specimen Requirements | |
| Specimen | Fluid |
| Preferred | CSF in sterile container(s) - see comment |
| Acceptable | |
| Unacceptable | |
| Specimen Transportation | Immediately to lab |
| Paediatric Requirements | CSF in sterile container(s) |
Aliquot Requirements | |
| Sample | |
| Preferred Volume | |
| Minimum Volume | |
| Aliquot Transportation | |
Clinical Information | |
| Reference Intervals | |
| Test Method | Microscopy and culture. |
| Advanced Notice | Not Required |
| Patient Preparation | Not Required |
Comments | |
| NOTE: Please state if ?SAH / ?Haemorrhage
Three samples are required in sterile bottles, one for culture and cell counts, one for biochemistry and the third for any further testing. A volume of 2-4 mL should be collected. If cytology for malignant cells is also required, the third bottle is used. | |
| Owner | Melanie Williams (Williams1) |
|---|---|
| Last reviewed | 12.09.2025 |
| Next review | 12.09.2026 (Overdue) |