“Xanthochromia” refers to the yellow colour of CSF due to the presence of bilirubin or its breakdown products (biliverdin & bilirubin conjugates). The presence of bilirubin in the CSF may indicate a bleed e.g. subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH)

Austin Pathology offers determination of CSF xanthochromia by spectrophotometry.

FOR OPTIMAL RESULTS:

• Perform LP at least 12 hours after the onset of symptoms.
• The last tube should be dedicated for xanthochromia analysis. If other tests are required, this may mean collecting a 4^th tube.
• Protect the tube from light immediately e.g. by wrapping tube in foil (as bilirubin in photosensitive).
• Transport the tube immediately to the laboratory.
• A serum sample for serum Bilirubin and Total Protein measurement should be collected at the same time as this may be required in difficult interpretations.

This sample may be deemed as precious and it is at the discretion of the collections staff whether or not it can be sent via the pneumatic tube system (PTS). Samples sent via the PTS may be unnecessarily delayed and it is recommended these samples are transported to the laboratory by foot.

 A guide to interpretation may be found here.

CSF samples should be sent to the laboratory immediately. Ensure all caps are screwed on correctly to avoid leakage & sterility. 

This test cannot be added after 72 hours of collection.