| Test information | Details |
|---|---|
| Lab section | Clinical Pathology |
| Test description | Measures color, transparency, total nucleated cell count, micro total protein; includes a cytological exam. |
| Species | All |
| Submission information | Details |
|---|---|
| Sample type | CSF Fluid |
| Container | Sterile tubes without anticoagulant such as a red top tube |
| Special submission instructions | • In addition to the CSF, collect a red top tube or SST of blood. Centrifuge the blood to collect serum. • To a sterile tube without anticoagulant, add one part patient’s serum to 9 parts CSF (e.g. 0.05 ml serum and 0.45 ml CSF). • Label this tube “CSF with serum”. • Label the remaining sample ‘Straight CSF”. • Send both CSF samples to the lab. Do not send the remaining serum. • Ship overnight for next day delivery. • Include cold packs. |
| Turnaround time | 1-2 business day |