Test Code CSFCNT Cell Count Spinal Fluid LAB212

Test Method

Sysmex XN

Hemacytometer Counting Chamber and Microscopy

Testing is performed Monday through Sunday.

Routine orders: Typically completed within 4 hours after the
specimen arrives at the testing site.

Expedite orders: Typically completed within 2 hours after the
specimen arrives at the testing site.

STAT orders: Typically completed within 1.5 hours after the
specimen arrives at the testing site.

1 mL of spinal fluid is required.

These counts are used as clinical guides in the diagnosis and/or
monitoring of diseases processes.

WBC: 0-5 Mononuclear cells/mm³

RBC: 0 cells/mm³

A Methylene Blue Stain is performed if the total polynuclear
(neutrophil) cells counted are greater than
5/mm³

89051 Other Pathology Services: Cell Count, miscellaneous
body fluids, except blood; with differential count

34563-7 Cell Count Panel-Cerebral Spinal Fluid (Manual)

Bloody CSF specimens may be run through the automated method; if
so:

57845-0 Leukocytes [#Volume] In Body Fluid By Automated
Count

Clotted specimens are not acceptable for spinal fluid cell
counts.

Wright Stain or Gram Stain: Perform a “Cytospin” on the sample
as soon as possible. Do not use anticoagulant and do not
refrigerate the sample. In lieu of Cytospin a traditional direct
smear Wright or Gram Stain is performed.
Cytology: A Wright Stained Cytospin slide is sent to the
Cytology Department at St. Luke's hospital in Cedar Rapids.