Procedure

Need separate tube for alzheimers Wrap SAH tap in aluminium foil after collecting

Average patient needs 1/2 to 3/4 of a 9cm long needle

Results Interpretation

Request PCR on CSF to diagnose viral Meningitis
Typical features of bacterial Meningitis include:
- Opening pressure >300mm $H X_{2} O$
- Colour may be cloudy, green or purulent
- WBC count is increased often >1000 per microlitre
- ↑ CSF protein
- ↓ CSF glucose to serum glucose ratio
Gram stain for all patients with suspected CNS infections
In Subarachnoid Haemorrhage, the CSF appears yellowish
Demyelinating conditions
- Typically ↑ CSF protein level but otherwise normal CSF
Spontaneous intracranial hypotension = opening pressure <60mm $H X_{2} O$ in an adult
Idiopathic intracranial hypertension = opening pressure >250mm $H X_{2} O$ in an adult
- Can be idiopathic or associated with infectious meningitis or intracranial masses