CSF Culture with Gram Stain

General Information

Lab Name

CSF C/S with Gram

Lab Code

CSFC

Epic Name

Culture CSF w/Gram

Description

This test is intended for the aerobic culture of CSF specimens from lumbar punctures. For CSF obtained from shunts, or from subdural, subgaleal, subarachnoid, or meningomyelocele sites, or if aerobic and anaerobic culture is required, see CSF Bacterial Culture and Sensitivity (Special Anaerobic) with Gram Stain [CSFANC].

Note: ADDCON fee is added for concentration of specimens >2 mL (UW-MT) and >1 mL (HMC).

Synonyms

Cerebrospinal Fluid Bacterial Culture, CSF Bacterial Culture, Shunt Bacterial Culture

Components

Specimen Type: CSF, Cerebrospinal Fluid
Collection: Submit SPINAL FLUID in sterile tube(s) or syringe with needle removed and syringe capped.

Specimens will be rejected if received > 24 hours after collection. Viability of organisms is significantly reduced after 24 hours.
Handling Instructions: Indicate source of fluid, e.g. lumbar puncture, ventriculostomy, meningomyelocele.

Transport to the laboratory within 1 hour of collection at room temperature.

Note: Never refrigerate CSF because Neisseria meningitidis is susceptible to cold.
Quantity: Requested: 1 - 5 mL CSF
Minimum: 1 mL CSF

Receiving Instructions: CSFC is always considered a STAT test.

If specimen is labeled ventricular, subdural, subgaleal, subarachnoid, meningomyelocele, shunt, or if aerobic and anaerobic culture is requested, log in CSFANC.

Also log in ADDCON for specimen concentration if >2 mL volume (UW-MT) or >1 mL (HMC).

Lab Department

Microbiology(MC)

Frequency

Processed upon receipt

Available STAT?

Yes-Gram stain

Performing Location(s)

HMC	Microbiology 206-744-5858 325 9th Ave, Rm # GWH-47, Seattle, WA 98104-2420
UW-MT	Microbiology 206-520-4600 Clinical Lab, Room # NW177, University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific street, Seattle, WA 98195

Other Locations/Notes

UW-MT Microbiology performs testing for UW-MT and UW-NW.