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Test Code CSFCNT CSF Cell Count and Differential

Important Note

CSF specimens should be transported to the lab as soon as possible.  The cell count should be performed within 60 minutes of collection for best recovery.

Additional Codes

LAB212

Specimen Required

Container Type:

Optimal:  4 white screw cap CSF collection vials

Acceptable: 

  • syringe
  • other sterile collection container
Optimal Collection Volume: 

6 mLs CSF divided between 4 CSF collection vials
Collection Instructions:

Label samples with a minimum of two (2) patient identifiers and indicate the order of collection on the individual tubes.
Processing Instructions: 

Send vials to lab as soon as possible at ambient temperature.

Useful For

Detecting the number of cells and cell types are critical in the diagnosis and treatment of meningitis, encephalitis, certain malignancies, and a number of other pathological conditions.

Profile Information

Test ID   Reporting Name Available Separately Always Performed
CFCH CSF Character N Y
CCOL CSF Color N Y
CFVO CSF Volume N Y
NUMTUB Number of Tubes N Y
CTNC Total Nucleated Cell Count N Y
CRBC Total Red Blood Cell Count N Y
CPOLL % Polymorphonuclear Cells N N
CMONL % Mononuclear Cells N N
CLYMPH % Lymphocytes N N
CEOS % Eosinophils N N
CSFCOM CSF Comments N N
CSFRV CSF Evaluation by Pathologist Y N

Method Name

Total nucleated cell and red blood cell counts are determined by flow cytometry on the Sysmex XN hematology analyzer or by manual counting on a hemocytometer counting chamber.

The differential is determined using cytocentrifugation of the cells onto a slide and examining the stained slide under a microscope. 

Stability Information

Specimen Type Temperature Time
CSF Fluid Refrigerated 12 hours
Ambient  12 hours
Frozen  Reject for cell count

Rejection Due To

  • Frozen sample
  • Completely clotted specimen

 

Specimen Minimum Volume

Collecting minimum volumes can result in a need for sample recollection, and/or a delay in results. Minimum volumes are subjective and cannot account for all aspects of specimen and testing needs. Refer to the Specimen Required section for optimal volumes for laboratory specimens. Contact the Bronson Laboratory if complex collection exceptions occur that require more information.

 

Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Neonate Volume: 0.5 mL

Performing Laboratory

Bronson Laboratory, Hematology - Kalamazoo, Battle Creek, Paw Paw, South Haven

Day(s) Performed

24/7

Reference Values

 Test ID   Reference Range    Units      
CTNC, Adult 0-5 cells/mL
CTNC, Newborn 0-30 cells/mL

LOINC Code Information

 

Test ID Test Order Name Order LOINC Value
CSFCNT CSF Fluid, Cell Count and Differential 34564-5

CPT Code Information

89051

Sample Retention Time

7 Days