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Cerebrospinal Fluid Testing


Why is this procedure done?


This test is done to learn more about the fluid around your brain and spinal cord called cerebrospinal fluid or CSF. The fluid is most often clear or colorless. If you have an injury or infection, this may change. The doctor will need to do a lumbar puncture to get your CSF fluid. Lumbar puncture is also known as a spinal tap. ‚  
The doctor may order CSF testing to: ‚  
  • Check for an injury, problem, or illness in your brain or spinal cord
  • Look for infection


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What will the results be?


  • The doctor will look at the results of your test to decide what treatment may be needed.
  • If the results are normal, it means your body is likely working in a normal way.
  • If the results are not normal, you may have an illness or injury. Your doctor may order more tests to learn more about what is wrong.

What happens before the procedure?


  • There are no special things to do before the test.
  • Talk to your doctor about:
    • All the drugs you are taking
    • If you have any bleeding problems

What happens during the procedure?


  • It will only take a few minutes to have this test. You will be awake the whole time. It is important to be very still during the test.
  • You will lie on your side with your knees pulled up to your chest. Sometimes, you will be asked to sit on a bed or an exam table and lean forward. The doctor will talk with you about what will happen during the lumbar puncture.
  • Your doctor will clean your lower back with a special soap. You will be given a drug to numb the area where the lumbar puncture is done. This may sting a bit.
  • Your doctor will put a needle in your lower back. A sample of fluid will be taken out and sent to the lab for testing.

What happens after the procedure?


  • You will be asked to lie quietly for a few hours after the test. Then you may want to sit for a few minutes before standing up. This will help keep you from feeling dizzy after the test.
  • Ask your doctor when you will get the results.

What care is needed at home?


You may do your everyday activities when you get back home. ‚  

What follow-up care is needed?


  • This test will help your doctor understand if you have a problem with your CSF. Together you can make a plan for more care.
  • Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits.

What problems could happen?


  • Pain
  • Bruising
  • Bleeding
  • Feeling dizzy
  • Headache
  • Infection

Where can I learn more?


American Association for Clinical Chemistry ‚  
http://labtestsonline.org/understanding/analytes/csf/tab/test ‚  
KidsHealth ‚  
http://kidshealth.org/parent/general/sick/lumbar_puncture.html ‚  

Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer


This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚  

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