Cerebrospinal Fluid - Biochemistry (CSF) Test | Austin Pathology

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Cerebrospinal Fluid - Biochemistry (CSF)

Alternate Names	CSF, CSF Biochemistry
Test Code	CSFB
Testing Laboratory	Biochemistry
Specimen Type	CSF
Container Type	Sterile CSF Tube
Medicare Rebate	Yes
Out of Pocket Costs	None
Ordering Information	Please state individual tests required. If "CSF Biochemistry" is requested, only glucose and total protein will be tested.
Collection Instructions	CSF samples should be sent to the laboratory immediately. Ensure all caps are screwed on correctly to avoid leakage. If a Xanthochromic Index is required, an additional 1 mL into a 4th CSF tube must be collected. This tube must be protected from the light by wrapping in foil completely, as the bilirubin and its breakdown products (biliverdin & Bilirubin conjugates) are photosensitive. Failure to wrap a sample in foil may produce falsely negative results. In neonates and infants a minimum of 300µL is required for Xanthochromia Index.
Transport Instructions	Transport ambient at room temperature
Storage Instructions	Store refrigerated at 4°C
Testing Frequency	Daily
Min Test Volume	1mL
Add On Test Suitability	This test cannot be added after 72 hours of collection.

Container ID	CSF1
Laboratory Instructions	Instructions for: Metropolitan & Regional Specimen Receptions CSF samples should be handled urgently. Where there are multiple tubes from a lumbar puncture: Tube 3 is for Microbiology and 1, 2 for Biochemistry, Cytology, etc. (If tube 3 is not available for Microbiology, send tube 2) If tap is traumatic (blood-stained), 1 and 3 go to Microbiology for cell counts. If insufficient tubes are received for the tests requested, please contact the Medical Microbiologist or Registrar.
Accredited Test	Yes

These PDF documents can be downloaded for your reference

Order of Draw (PDF)

Swab Collection Guide (PDF)

Pre-Transfusion Specimen Requirements (PDF)

Requirements for Pathology Service (PDF)