Pathology Handbook

New search

CSF Microscopy & Culture

Alternative Names:

Cerebrospinal Fluid MC&S

Laboratory:

Microbiology

Test Code:

CSF C

Specimen Types:

Cerebrospinal Fluid

Container Types:

CSF Tube 3

Adults Volume or Mass:

1 mL

Collection & Request Instructions:

1. Out-of-hours: Notify on-call staff via Alfred switchboard if microscopy and culture required ( not usually indicated if CSF is clear macroscopically).

2. A Gram stain is performed on any CSF with a raised white cell count (> 5 polymorphs x 10⁶/L).

3. Special tests are available on specific request. See individual test listings.

Transport Instructions between Sites and/or Laboratories:

Room Temperature

Additional Notes:

Reference Ranges:

RBC 0 x 10^6/L

Lymphocytes < 5 x 10^6/L

Other WBC 0 x 10^6/L