Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) Test

CSF test is mainly done to microscopically look for the presence of any infections or abnormal cells or to analyse proteins and chemicals in the body. A change in the levels of any substance could indicate an underlying condition. Therefore, a doctor may recommend a CSF test in the following cases:

• Unexplained seizures
• Fevers of unidentified origin
• Dementia (Memory loss)
• Acute confusion states
• Inhalation of anthrax
• Encephalitis
• Suspected tumours

The physical appearance and pressure while collecting the sample can also be an indication of certain disorders.

A CSF test can identify specific bacteria, viruses, brain-specific proteins and markers for inflammation and cancers. Thus, the doctor could perform a CSF test as a part of diagnosis for any of the following underlying conditions:

• Multiple sclerosis
• Meningitis
• Syphilis 
• Tuberculosis 
• Leptospirosis 
• Cryptococcosis

This test does not require special preparations. Make sure you are well-rested before the test and available for an entire day for the procedure, as proper rest is essential after the procedure. Also, it is important that you inform your doctor about any previous medical conditions you may have had or if you are taking any medicines or herbal supplements.

At the test centre, your doctor will first explain the basic procedure to you. The following steps will then be followed for the test:

• You will be asked to lie down on the bed on one side and curl up in a foetal position with your legs close to your chest
• Your doctor will clean the area of puncture, ie on the lower back between two bones (vertebrae), to make it sterile and he/she will apply a numbing cream
• A sterilised needle will then be slowly inserted between two bones to collect the fluid 
• The doctor will use a manometer to check the pressure of the fluid at this point
• Once the fluid is withdrawn, the needle will be slowly removed 
• The area will be covered with a cotton gauze and bandage
• You will be asked to remain in the foetal position for some time and take rest for a few hours

A slight tingling sensation may be felt due to the numbing cream applied on the lower back. You might also have a headache after the procedure, which may last several hours. Inform the doctor if the headache prolongs.

If you feel nauseated, your doctor may advise you to stay on intravenous fluids. In extremely rare cases, there could be a chance of infection due to the procedure. The doctor will recommend antibiotics accordingly.
​It is essential that you remain calm throughout the test. Lying in the foetal position for long may be uncomfortable, but if you do not move, the procedure will be completed in approximately 30 minutes.

Normal results: The following values would indicate normal results: