CEREBROSPINAL FLUID (CSF) EXAMINATION

Overview

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless liquid found in your brain and spinal cord. CSF acts as a cushion, protecting the brain and spine from injury. In normal adults, the CSF volume is 90 to 200 mL; approximately 20 percent of the CSF is contained in the ventricles; the rest is contained in the subarachnoid space in the cranium and spinal cord. The normal rate of CSF production is approximately 20 mL per hour. A CSF examination helps to diagnose: Infectious diseases of the brain and spinal cord, including meningitis and encephalitis. CSF tests for infections look at white blood cells, bacteria, and other substances in the cerebrospinal fluid, Autoimmune disorders, such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome and multiple sclerosis (MS). CSF tests for these disorders look for high levels of certain proteins in the cerebrospinal fluid. These tests are called albumin protein and igG/albumin. Bleeding in the brain, Brain tumors.