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Clinical Pathology Laboratory - Available Test
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Cerebrospinal Fluid Cytology Report
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| An example of our CSF report is indicated below. For all CSFs,
we perform the following: |
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Visual assessment: Color, turbidity, volume.
Cell counts: This includes both red and white blood
cell counts. In most instances, this is done manually using
a hemocytometer. However, if cell counts are high enough (>
1000 cells/µL), we can perform cell counts using our
bench top impedance counter, the Coulter Z2. Results are reported
as numbers of cells/µL.
Total protein: This is measured on the Hitachi using
a protein precipitation (turbidometric technique). Results
are reported out in mg/dL.
Cytologic evaluation: Most CSFs are poorly cellular
and require concentration. This is accomplished using a cytospin
in our laboratory (see image above). If there are sufficient
cells, we perform a differential cell count on the CSF.
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| CSF is unstable and samples should be submitted promptly after collection
(i.e. ASAP). They also take over 45 minutes to prepare, therefore
there will be at least a 30 to 45 minute delay for any stat CSFs.
If CSF samples are collected out of hours, they should be refrigerated
until analysis the next day. Both white cell counts and differential
cell counts are affected by storage. Ideally, an equal volume of patient
serum (non-hemolyzed) can be added to the CSF after collection, if
the sample is going to be stored > 12 hours. However, a separate
aliquot (to which no serum has been added) must be maintained (at
least 500 µL or 1/2 ml) for measuring protein (which will obviously
be affected by addition of the serum). |
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