What is the CSF Cell Count ? Why is the test done? Everything around this, that you should know, in this post and of course our doctors are always there to help you. Just fill in your details in the form down below and we will answer all your questions for FREE!
What is the CSF cell count test?
This test is used to measure the number of RBCs and WBCs present in the CSF (cerebrospinal fluid). CSF is the fluid present around the space between the brain and the spinal cord.
Also Read: CSF Protein
Why is it done?
It helps in detecting the:
- Inflammation
- Any infarct in the brain
- Brain abscess
- Brain tumour
- Meningitis
- Bleeding in the spinal cord
What is the normal range for CSF cell count?
RBCs should not be there in the CSF. The normal range for WBCs according to age is as follows:
Neonates <1 year = 0 – 30 1 – 4 years of age = 0 – 20 5 – 18 years of age = 0 – 10 Above 18 years = 0 – 5
When should I get it done?
CSF cell count may be ordered in cases of infections, haemorrhage, and immune response disorders, for cancer patients associated with confusion or who have had trauma or injury to the spine or brain.
It is done when you indicate any of the following symptoms:
- Neck stiffness
- Headache
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Flu-like symptoms
- Lethargy, fatigue
- Nausea
- Fever
- Skin eruptions
- Light sensitivity
- Numbness
- Tremors
- Dizziness
- Walking difficulty
What does it mean to have high WBCs?
An increased number of WBCs indicate:
- Meningitis
- Malignancy or demyelinating disease
The cause for increased WBC counts in the CSF can be:
- Abscess
- Inflammation
- Tumour
- Meningitis
- Hemorrhage
- Multiple sclerosis
- Neurosarcoidosis
What does it mean to have RBCs in the CSF?
RBCs in the CSF indicate:
- Hemorrhage
- A result of traumatic lumbar puncture
Also Read: Glucose CSF Protein
For more information, you can visit Testing .com and NCBI.
