Cell Count Only, Cerebral Spinal Fluid

Orderable EAP code:

LAB00268

Billable EAP Codes:

80001832 x 1

CPT Codes:

89050 x 1

Lab Section:

Core Lab

Turnaround Time:

Routine: 4 Hours
Urgent: 2 Hours

Test Schedule:

24 hours, 7 days a week.

Critical Values:

Adult WBC greater than or equal to 20 cu/mm
Neonate WBC greater than or equal to 30/cu mm

Specimen Requirements:

2 mL CSF in a CSF vial.

Pediatric Specimen Requirements:

0.5 mL CSF in a CSF vial or sterile container.

Reference Range:

Adult WBC 0 to 5/cu mm
Neonate WBC 0 to 29/cu mm

Comments:

Cell counts will be attempted on all fluids sent. However, specimen volume and quality may affect or prevent testing (i.e. specimens with small clots will be tested and results reported with a disclaimer that results may be affected, but specimens that are fully clotted cannot be counted). 

CSF and body fluid specimens should be examined within 1 hour of collection; if it can't be examined within 1 hour, refrigerate. Stable for 8 hours at 2 to 8 C (although there can be cell deterioration).