Test Code CSFCNT Spinal Fluid Cell Count
Methodology
Microscopic ExaminationUseful for detecting bacterial or viral encephalitis, leukemia/malignant lymphoma of the central nervous system, meningitis, meningoencephalitis, mycobacterial or fungal infections, primary or secondary malignancy, trauma, or vascular occlusive disease.
Performing Laboratory
St. Clair Hospital LaboratorySpecimen Requirements
Specimen must arrive within 2 hours of collection.
1 mL of spinal fluid. Maintain sterility and forward promptly in a screw-capped, sterile vial.
Note: Tubes should be labeled with number indicating sequence in which vials were obtained.
Reference Values
RBC: 0/cu mmWBC: 0-8 mononuclear/cu mm