What is a Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis?Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless, watery fluid that flows in and around your brain and spinal cord. Your brain and spinal cord make up your central nervous system. It controls and coordinates everything you do, including your ability to move, breathe, see think, and more. Show
Cerebrospinal fluid acts like a cushion that helps protect your brain and spinal cord from sudden impact or injury. The fluid also removes waste products from the brain and helps your central nervous system work properly. A CSF analysis is a group of tests that use a sample of your cerebrospinal fluid to help diagnose diseases of the brain and spinal cord and other conditions that affect the central nervous system. Other names: Spinal Fluid Analysis, CSF Analysis What is it used for?A CSF analysis is used to measure different substances in your cerebrospinal fluid. It may include tests to diagnose:
Why do I need a CSF analysis?Your health care provider may order a CSF analysis if you have:
Symptoms of a brain or spinal cord infection include:
Symptoms of MS often vary and come and go, or they may steadily get worse. They may include:
What happens during a CSF analysis?To get a sample of cerebrospinal fluid, a provider will do a procedure called a spinal tap, also known as a lumbar puncture. A spinal tap is usually done in a hospital. During the procedure:
Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?You don't need any special preparations for a CSF analysis, but you may be asked to empty your bladder (pee) and bowels (poop) before the test. Are there any risks to the test?There is very little risk to having a spinal tap. You may feel a little pinch or pressure when the needle is inserted. After the test, you may feel some pain or tenderness in your back at the site where the needle was inserted. You may also have some bleeding at the site or get a headache. The headache may last for several hours or up to a week or more, but your provider may suggest treatment to help relieve the pain. What do the results mean?A CSF analysis may include a variety of different tests on your sample. So, the measurements on your test results will depend on which tests were done. Your provider can explain what your results mean. In general, your CSF analysis results may show that you have an infection, an autoimmune disorder, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), or another disease or injury of the brain or spinal cord. Your provider will likely order more tests to confirm your diagnosis. Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results. Is there anything else I need to know about a CSF analysis?Some infections, such as meningitis caused by bacteria, are life-threatening emergencies. If your provider suspects you have bacterial meningitis or another serious infection, you may need to start medicine before you have a final diagnosis. References
Which diagnostic tests does the nurse evaluate to confirm the presence of bacterial meningitis?The diagnostic tests in patients with clinical findings of meningitis are as follows: Lumbar puncture. In general, whenever the diagnosis of meningitis is strongly considered, a lumbar puncture should be promptly performed; examination of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is the cornerstone of the diagnosis. CT scan.
Which laboratory result would verify the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis?Laboratory examination of the CSF is usually the first step to confirm the presence of bacterial meningitis. Note that cytological examination should precede centrifugation and heating of the CSF.
Which test is used to understand the staging criteria for Reye's syndrome in a child?There's no specific test for Reye's syndrome. Instead, screening for Reye's syndrome usually begins with blood and urine tests as well as testing for fatty acid oxidation disorders and other metabolic disorders.
Which interventions does the nurse implement to prevent the elevation of intracranial pressure ICP in an unconscious child?Nursing Interventions
Interventions to lower or stabilize ICP include elevating the head of the bed to thirty degrees, keeping the neck in a neutral position, maintaining a normal body temperature, and preventing volume overload.
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