Final answer:
The CSF findings in traumatic LP and SAH can be distinguished by their appearance and microscopic examination. Traumatic LP may appear reddish or yellowish due to blood contamination from the procedure, while SAH CSF is typically pink or red from bleeding into the subarachnoid space.
Step-by-step explanation:
When analyzing the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained from a lumbar puncture, certain findings can help differentiate between traumatic lumbar puncture (LP) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). In traumatic LP, the CSF may appear contaminated with blood due to the procedure itself, which can make the fluid appear reddish or xanthochromic (yellowish). On the other hand, SAH CSF typically appears bloody as it is caused by bleeding into the subarachnoid space, resulting in a pink or red appearance of the fluid. Additionally, microscopic examination of SAH CSF may reveal red blood cells and xanthochromia.