A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture is a laboratory test to look for bacteria, fungus, and viruses in the clear fluid that moves in the space surrounding the spinal cord.
Alternative Names:
Culture - CSF; Spinal fluid culture: CSF culture
How the test is performed:
A sample of CSF fluid is needed. This is usually done with a lumbar puncture. For information on how this procedure is performed, see: spinal tap.
The sample is sent to the laboratory, where it is placed in a special dish (called a culture medium). The laboratory personnel watch to see if bacteria, fungus, or viruses grow in the dish. Growth means there is an infection.
How to prepare for the test:
For information on how to prepare for the procedure to obtain the CSF sample, see: spinal tap.
How the test will feel:
For information on how it will feel to have a sample of CSF fluid removed, see: spinal tap.
Review Date: 12/3/2007
Reviewed By: D. Scott Smith, M.D., MSc, DTM&H, Chief of Infectious Disease & Geographic Medicine, Kaiser Redwood City, CA & Adjunct Assistant Professor, Stanford University. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Tests
