Cerebrospinal Fluid Culture

Included Tests

Gram Stain

Specimen Requirements

2.0 mL CSF in Sterile Tube

Alternate Specimen

Acid Fast smear and culture requires additional 1.0 mL. Fungus smear and culture requires additional 1.0 mL. Virology tests require additional 2.0 mL.

TransportAndStorage

Collection Instructions

Always specify order of importance of CSF tests when multiple ordered

Minimum Volume

1.0 mL CSF

Neonatal Volumne

1.0 mL CSF preferred / Minimum 0.5 mL CSF

Reference Range:

No Growth

Critical Ranges:

Positive gram stain; culture

Test Comments:

All significant isolates will be worked up for identification and susceptibility if appropriate

Methodology:

• Routine Culture

CDM

01412718

CPT Coding

87070, 87205 (Reflexes 87186, 87077)