Cerebrospinal Fluid - MC & S Test | Austin Pathology

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Cerebrospinal Fluid - MC & S

Alternate Names	CSF MCS, CSF Culture
Ordering Information	For specimens with raised white cell counts, the following tests are available by consultation with Medical Microbiologist AFB culture and PCR Fungal culture Cryptococcal antigens HSV PCR CMV PCR VZV PCR Enterovirus PCR Please prioritise requests.
Laboratory	Microbiology
Specimen	CSF
Container	Sterile CSF tube
Additional Collection Instructions	CSF samples should be sent to the laboratory immediately. Ensure all caps are screwed on correctly to avoid leakage & sterility.
Minimum Adult Volume	None
Minimum Paediatric Volume	None
Notes	2 - 10 mL CSF for bacterial culture. For optimal sensitivity of AFB investigation, a minimum of 10 mL CSF is required for culture.
Frequency	As required

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)

Test Code	CSF
Container ID	CM, CSF3, CSF2, CMS, CSF1
Opt. Specimen	See collection instructions
Storage Instructions	Store at 4°C
Transport Instructions	Transport at 4°C
Laboratory Notes	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