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HelpTest Code LAB212 Cell Count and Differential, CSF
Useful For
An aid in diagnosing a disease or condition affecting the central nervous system such as infection, bleeding within the brain or skull, cancer, or autoimmune disorder.
Methodology
Manual Hemocytometer/Cytospin Differential
Performing Laboratory
Bozeman Health Laboratory Services
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Spinal fluid
Container/Tube: Screw-capped, sterile tube
Specimen Volume: 1 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Label tube(s) with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and in order of collection 1, 2, 3, etc.
2. Maintain sterility and forward promptly. Do not send by pneumatic tube.
Specimen Rejection: Clotted samples will be rejected for a cell count.
Additional Information: This test will be performed on tube #3 or #4 of tubes submitted from spinal fluid collection.
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient
Specimen Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| CSF | Ambient | 1 hour |
Reference Values
Testing includes analysis of RBCs, WBCs, color, and appearance:
Color: colorless
Appearance: clear
Neutrophils: 0%-6%
Lymphocytes: 40%-80%
Monocytes: 15%-45%
Note: A RBC count will also be performed on tube #1 if there are RBC's present in tube #4. This is to determine whether the blood is a result of hemorrhage or a traumatic tap.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
89051