CEREBROSPINAL FLUIDS
05/19/2021
INDICATIONS:
In cytology, cerebrospinal fluids are most commonly evaluated to detect and characterize malignancy or inflammatory conditions of the central nervous system. While in most individuals CSF specimens are relatively easy to obtain, in some individuals, collection may require radiographic guidance. Omaya reservoir specimens are also commonly submitted for evaluation.
SPECIMEN:
No minimal amount is required but collect as much specimen as is clinically possible. The optimal amount of CSF for cytology studies is 3 to 5 ml. If multiple tubes are collected, the last tube drawn is the one preferred for cytology
SUPPLIES:
1. Standard cerebrospinal fluid collection equipment
2. Clean, plastic 10 ml collection container for CSF
3. Specimen Requisition
4. Specimen Bag with a biohazard label
COLLECTION:
Use standard CSF collection procedures to collect FRESH CSF FLUID; place into specimen collection container. Label the container and requisition slip and send to your lab’s STAT. Complete test requisition including last and first name of patient, patient’s date of birth and social security number, body site and source of specimen collected. Label specimen container (using the labels provided on the requisition) with patient’s first name and last name, and body site/source. The container must have at least two (2) unique identifiers. Examples of unique identifiers: patient name, DOB, unique bar code, etc. Include pertinent clinical information, i.e., previous malignancy, radiation therapy, drugs, etc. Place container in a specimen bag with a biohazard label. Place the requisition in the side pocket of the specimen bag.