Test Overview
Test Methodology

Manual hemocytometer cell counts and manual cytospin differential preparations.

Test Usage

Cerebrospinal fluid evaluation for a variety of disease states.

Reference Range *

Nucleated Cells:
Adults: Neonates:
TNC: 0-5/uL 0-30/uL

Differential:
Lymphocytes: 40%-80%
Histiocytes: 15%-45%
Neutrophils: 0%-6%

Reference:
Kjelsberg's Body Fluid Analysis. ASCP 2015

* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.

Test Limitations

A traumatic (bloody) tap may make interpretation difficult.

Test Details
Days Set Up
Daily, 24 hours
Analytic Time

CSF Fluid Count: 1 hour
CSF Differential: 24 hours

Soft Order Code
CSFCD
MiChart Code
Cerebrospinal Fluid Count and Differential
Synonyms
  • Fluid Count/Differential, CSF
  • RBC, CSF
  • Red Cell Count, CSF
  • WBC, CSF
  • White Cell Count, CSF
  • Differential Count, CSF
  • Spinal Fluid Analysis
  • White Blood Cell Morphology, CSF
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Analysis
Laboratory
Hematopathology
Section
Hematology
STAT Availability

STAT requests for this test will be performed on a STAT basis (supervisory staff approval is not required).

Specimen Requirements
Collection Instructions

Collect specimen using aseptic technique. For optimal results, specimen should reach laboratory within 1 hr. If specimen must be stored, refrigeration is recommended. Specimen must be received within 4 hours of collection.

Special Handling

Send specimen to laboratory within 1 hour of collection.

Normal Volume
2 mL or more
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Rejection Criteria
Specimens received in syringes or plastic red top Vacutainer® tubes containing clot activator will be rejected. Clotted specimens will not have cell counts performed, but may still have a differential performed if requested. Specimens exceeding the storage criteria will be rejected.
Additional Information

Test includes fluid count and fluid differential. Test may include pathologist interpretation of results at an additional charge. By ordering this test, the clinician acknowledges that a pathologist interpretation will be performed and billed as a separate additional charge if indicated.

Billing
CPT Code
89051
Fee Code
22502
NY State Approved
No