CEREBROSPINAL FLUID CELL COUNT

Mnemonic

CSFC

Synonym

CSF Cell Count - Spinal Fluid Cell Count - Cell Count CSF

Includes

WBC/Nucleated cell count, RBC cell count, differential

Specimen Collection Requirements

Collect

CSF, into sterile collection containers

Handling

When more than one tube is collected, label tubes corresponding to the sequence of collection. If grossly bloody, place at least 1.0-2.0 mL into EDTA for cell count. Must be less than 1 hour old for accurate cell count.

Preferred Volume

1.0 mL

Minimum Volume

0.2 mL

Transport

Room Temperature, STAT, if delay is unavoidable, refrigerate

Rejection Criteria

Frozen sample, specimen submitted on swab, totally clotted sample

Stability

Room temperature: 1 hour; Refrigerated: 24 hours

Testing Information

Performed

7 days/week

Method

Automated count. Manual count performed when indicated.

Referral Lab

Samaritan Health Services Laboratories

Reference Values

CPT Codes

89051

Last Updated: Tuesday, April 14, 2020 12:47:42 PM