What tests are done on spinal fluid?

CSF glucose. CSF cell count (total number of cells present) CSF differential cell count (numbers of different types of cells present) If infection is suspected, CSF Gram stain, routine culture and molecular tests that detect the genetic material of any microbes present.

What is the normal level of CSF?

Normal Results CSF total protein: 15 to 60 mg/100 mL. Gamma globulin: 3% to 12% of the total protein. CSF glucose: 50 to 80 mg/100 mL (or greater than two thirds of blood sugar level) CSF cell count: 0 to 5 white blood cells (all mononuclear), and no red blood cells.

How long do CSF test results take?

Getting the results The doctor or nurse who performs the lumbar puncture can often tell you some of the results straight away and explain what they mean. You may need to wait for at least 48 hours for the full results. Some laboratory test results are available within a couple of hours in an emergency.

What is considered high protein in CSF?

The CSF protein content is almost always elevated in bacterial meningitis (Tables 20-1 and 20-2). Several studies have shown that protein levels are increased at least to some degree in more than 95% of patients, and its absolute value is over 80 mg/dl in more than 80% of patients.

What does high protein in CSF fluid mean?

An abnormal protein level in the CSF suggests a problem in the central nervous system. Increased protein level may be a sign of a tumor, bleeding, nerve inflammation, or injury. A blockage in the flow of spinal fluid can cause the rapid buildup of protein in the lower spinal area.

What does high glucose in spinal fluid mean?

Abnormal results include higher and lower glucose levels. Abnormal results may be due to: Infection (bacterial or fungus) Inflammation of the central nervous system. Tumor.

What causes elevated protein in CSF?

Elevated CSF protein is seen in infections, intracranial hemorrhages, multiple sclerosis, Guillain Barré syndrome, malignancies, some endocrine abnormalities, certain medication use, and a variety of inflammatory conditions (Table 3).