Culture, CSF

Test Code

CSFGM

Includes

Aerobic culture and Gram Stain.If culture is positive, identification will be performed at an additional charge.

Preferred Specimen

Cerebrospinal fluid in sterile leak-proof container.

Minimum Volume

0.2 mL

Transport Container

Sterile, plastic screw-cap tube

Transport Temperature

Room temperature

Specimen Stability

Transport to the lab as soon as possible. Do not refrigerate.

Methodology
Bacterial culture, aerobic, microscopy, routine isolation and identification procedures antibiotic susceptibility testing when appr

Setup Schedule

24/7

Report Available

3 days

Reference Range

See Laboratory Report

Clinical Significance

Cerebrospinal fluid cultures are of importance in the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis, an inflammation of the meninges. The most common causes of this life threatening condition are E. coli and Group B streptococci in neonates, H. influenzae (2 months-5 years), N. meningitidis (all ages, most common in older children and young adults) and S. pneumoniae (all ages).

The CPT Codes provided in this document are based on AMA guidelines and are for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the sole responsibility of the billing party. Please direct any questions regarding coding to the payor being billed. Any Profile/panel component may be ordered separately. Reflex tests are performed at an additional charge.