|
CSF culture |
| Definition: |
|
This is a test used to detect the presence of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungus) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) causing infection. CSF is a clear fluid that circulates in the space surrounding the spinal cord. The CSF protects the brain and spinal cord from injury and physical shocks, and carries products of neurosecretions (chemicals released by the neural tissue), chemicals in the cells, and chemical changes in the cells. |
| Alternative Names: |
| Culture - CSF (cerebral spinal fluid); Spinal fluid culture |
| How the test is performed: |
| The CSF is usually obtained through a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The culture is done in the lab. The fluid is placed in special media and allowed to grow. The microbiologist checks it every day. If the cultures grow (a "positive culture") then microorganisms are identified and antibiotic susceptibility is checked, allowing for optimal antibiotic use. |
| How to prepare for the test: |
| Preparation is the same as for a lumbar puncture. You must sign a consent form. You must be prepared to remain in the hospital for at least the 6 to 8 hours that you must remain flat. Infants and children: The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child's age, interests, previous experiences, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child's age:
|
| How the test will feel: |
| The position may be uncomfortable, but it is imperative that you remain in the curled position to avoid moving the needle and possibly injuring the spinal cord. The scrub will feel cold and wet. The anesthetic will sting or burn when first injected. There will be a hard pressure sensation when the needle is inserted, and there is usually some brief pain when the needle goes through the meninges. This pain should stop in a few seconds. Overall, discomfort is minimal to moderate. The entire procedure usually takes about 30 minutes, but may take longer. The actual pressure measurements and fluid collection only takes a few minutes. |
| Why the test is performed: |
| The culture helps identify fungus, virus, or bacteria that are present. |
| Normal Values: |
| No organism growth (negative) is normal. |
| What abnormal results mean: |
| If growth of fungus, virus, or bacteria occurs (a "positive culture"), this indicates meningitis or other infections. The culture will determine the type of organisms present in the CSF. See also: |
| What the risks are: |
|
| Special considerations: |
| Not applicable. |
Reviewed By: Camille Kotton, M.D., Infectious Diseases Division, Massachusetts General Hospital and Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
 |
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). URAC's accreditation program is the first of its kind, requiring compliance with 53 standards of quality and accountability, verified by independent audit. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics (www.hiethics.com) and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation (www.hon.ch). |
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2003 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
