Spinal fluid analysis
Description
Spinal fluid, also known as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) surrounds the brain and spinal cord. A spinal tap (lumbar puncture) is performed to remove some of this fluid for analysis. The fluid is sent to the laboratory to test for red blood cells, white blood cells, glucose, and protein. The fluid is also cultured to identify any bacteria. Other tests can also be performed dependent on what disease the provider is trying to detect.
Cost
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Common Complications
None. Complications from the spinal tap include: infection, bleeding, and nerve injury. The most common problem is leaking of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) causing a spinal headache (postural headache). The pain of a spinal headache decreases with laying flat and increases with standing up.
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Research
- Infectious Disease Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Neurology
- Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
- Pediatric Neurology
- Pediatrics
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