| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z # |
Cerebrospinal Fluid Cell Count
MessagePerformed in the Hematology Laboratory x5475, 76.
Assessed in conjunction with a CSF differential.
Assessed in conjunction with a CSF differential.
Test Code
CFCT
Alias/See Also
CSF Cell Count
CPT Codes
89051
Includes
Nucleated cell count, RBC count, description of fluid color and clarity.
If the appearance is other than clear, fluid will be assessed for xanthochromia
If the appearance is other than clear, fluid will be assessed for xanthochromia
Preferred Specimen
CSF or shunt fluid
Minimum Volume
1 mL
Instructions
Deliver to lab immediately.
Transport Container
Sterile, screw cap tube (white top)
Hematology will test the last tube drawn in the series (of 3 or 4 tubes submitted). If 4 tubes are submitted, Hematology may also test the first tube to asses a bloody tap, as requested.
Hematology will test the last tube drawn in the series (of 3 or 4 tubes submitted). If 4 tubes are submitted, Hematology may also test the first tube to asses a bloody tap, as requested.
Transport Temperature
Room Temperature
Specimen Stability
Sample is stable at room temperature for up to 1 hour after collection.
Reject Criteria (Eg, hemolysis? Lipemia? Thaw/Other?)
Sample will be rejected if grossly clotted.
If the sample contains small clots, it will be assayed with a notation that
the counts may be invalid.
If the sample contains small clots, it will be assayed with a notation that
the counts may be invalid.
Methodology
Manual chamber count or impedence particle counting on automated cell counter
Setup Schedule
24/7
Limitations
Shunt fluids: Due to degeneration of RBC and WBC in the fluid, the counts may be erroneous.
Reference Range
Appearance: clear, no turbidity, colorless
Cell counts:
WBC <4 yrs: 0-30/ uL
>12 yrs: 0-5/uL
RBC all ages: 0/uL
Other age group normals not defined.
Clinical Significance
RBC and nucleated cell counts are used to assess intracranial hemorrhage, infection or malignancy.
