Interpretation of Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Findings

Cell Count and Differential Analysis in CSF

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis is a crucial diagnostic tool in neurology and infectious disease management. One of the key components of CSF evaluation is cell count and differential analysis, which helps in identifying infections, inflammatory conditions, and malignancies.

Normal CSF Parameters

• White Blood Cells (WBC): Normally less than 5 cells per microliter.
• Red Blood Cells (RBC): Normally absent; presence suggests hemorrhage or traumatic tap.
• Glucose: 50-80 mg/dL (about two-thirds of blood glucose level).
• Protein: 15-45 mg/dL, elevated in infections or inflammatory disorders.

Abnormal CSF Findings

Infectious Causes

Bacterial meningitis typically shows increased WBC (predominantly neutrophils), decreased glucose, and elevated protein. Viral meningitis presents with a lymphocytic predominance and near-normal glucose levels.

Inflammatory and Autoimmune Diseases

Conditions like multiple sclerosis may exhibit an increased WBC count, predominantly lymphocytes, along with the presence of oligoclonal bands.

Clinical Interpretation

Accurate analysis of CSF parameters is essential for diagnosing neuroinfections, malignancies, and autoimmune diseases, guiding appropriate treatment decisions.