CSF cell count

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CSF cell count

At that point there will be fluid flowing out of the needle and this will be collected in plastic containers. Under normal circumstances, the opening pressure will be measured with a manometer and then about 20-30 cc of spinal fluid will be collected and sent for evaluation under the microscope.

Under experienced hands there should not be any pain. There may be a feeling of pressure when the needle is inserted but with appropriate anesthetic, this should not hurt. Occasionally, some people may feel numbness shooting down the leg. This may be due to irritation of a nerve root.

The needle is withdrawn, the sensation subsides and is not permanent. Following the procedure, the patient is advised to remain lying down for an hour or two to prevent low-pressure headaches. The entire procedure takes approximately 20 minutes.

The CSF cell count may help diagnose meningitis and infection of the brain or spinal cord, a tumor, abscess, or area of tissue death (infarct), and it helps identify inflammation. The cell count may also help identify a hemorrhage.

Review Date: 04/28/2005
Reviewed By: Chitra R. Uppaluri, M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St. Louis, MO. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.