Question

What are the findings in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis?

1) Low glucose, PMN predominance
2) Normal glucose, lymphocytic predominance
3) Numerous RBCs in serial CSF samples
4) ↑ gamma globulins

Answer 1

CSF analysis is a diagnostic tool for neurological conditions, revealing low glucose and high PMNs in bacterial meningitis, and increased gamma globulins in multiple sclerosis. Numerous RBCs may indicate subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Step-by-step explanation:

Findings in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis are crucial for diagnosing different neurological conditions. A lumbar puncture is performed to obtain CSF, and the analysis includes cell counts, protein, and glucose estimation, as well as cultures to identify any microorganisms responsible for infections.

In cases of bacterial meningitis, CSF analysis will typically show low glucose levels (< 45 mg/dL), a high number of polymorphonuclear neutrophils (PMNs) (> 10 PMNs/mm³), and increased protein levels (> 45 mg/dL). If the CSF is cloudy andthe Gram stain or culture is positive, it can confirm the presence of bacteria that can be targeted with antibiotic treatment. In other conditions such as multiple sclerosis, an increase in gamma globulins can be seen, often with the presence of oligoclonal bands. When there's a suspicion of subarachnoid hemorrhage, numerous red blood cells (RBCs) in serial CSF samples would be a significant finding.