Cerebrospinal fluid analysis - significance, procedure and informative value of the examination of the cerebrospinal fluid
CSF analysis is an important diagnostic procedure for recognising diseases of the central nervous system. Find out more about the procedure, indications and typical laboratory values
Things worth knowing about "Cerebrospinal fluid analysis"
CSF analysis is an important diagnostic procedure for recognising diseases of the central nervous system. Find out more about the procedure, indications and typical laboratory values
The liquor analysis is a diagnostic examination of the liquor cerebrospinalis (also known as cerebrospinal fluid): nervous fluid or cerebrospinal fluid). It is used to assess diseases of the central nervous system (CNS) such as inflammations, infections, haemorrhages, neurodegenerative or autoimmune diseases. The cerebrospinal fluid surrounds the brain and spinal cord and fulfils important functions such as protection, transport of substances and pressure regulation.
.When is a CSF analysis useful?
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is used for the following clinical questions:
-
Suspicion of meningitis (inflammation of the meninges) or encephalitis
-
Multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating diseases
-
Neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, Creutzfeldt-Jakob)
-
Haemorrhages in the subarachnoid space
-
Suspected tumour in the CNS or meningeosis carcinomatosa
-
Clarification of unclear neurological symptoms (e.g. headache, dizziness, seizures, paralysis)
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is also becoming increasingly important in research into biomarker-based early diagnoses, such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease.
Procedure of the examination
The lumbar puncture is usually performed in the area of the lumbar spine (between L3/L4 or L4/L5):
-
The patient is sitting or lying on their side
-
A fine puncture needle is inserted into the cerebrospinal fluid space (subarachnoid space)
-
In most cases, 5-15 ml of CSF is removed
The procedure is usually low-risk, but can lead to headaches or back pain in the short term.
What is analysed in the cerebrospinal fluid?
The laboratory analysis includes, depending on the question:
-
Cell count and cell differentiation (e.g. increased in inflammation)
-
Total protein and albumin quotient to assess the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier
-
Glucose and lactate concentration (e.g. altered in bacterial infections)
-
Specific antibodies (e.g. in multiple sclerosis: oligoclonal bands)
-
Pathogen detection (PCR, culture, antigen tests) in case of suspected infection
-
Biomarkers such as β-amyloid, tau protein, phosphorylated tau in Alzheimer's
Informative value
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis provides important indications of inflammatory, infectious or neurodegenerative processes in the brain or spinal cord. In many cases, it can contribute to early diagnosis or confirm differential diagnoses
.Example: In Alzheimer's, the analysis typically shows:
-
Low β-amyloid 1-42
-
Increased total tau and phosphorylated tau
.
The detection of multiple sclerosis can also be diagnostic in oligoclonal bands in the cerebrospinal fluid
Literature references:
-
Rauer, S. et al. (2018). "Guideline on cerebrospinal fluid diagnostics." German Society of Neurology (DGN)
-
Tumani, H. et al. (2017). "The cerebrospinal fluid - a window to the brain." Deutsches Ärzteblatt
-
Robert Koch Institute (2023). "Pathogen detection in cerebrospinal fluid - laboratory and reporting obligations."
Building Blocks for a Healthy Life
As an integrated manufacturer, we develop & produce evidence-based, patented, and non-patented formulations. We work exclusively with plant and natural extracts according to the strictest purity & quality standards.
The combination of science & modern technology with the laws of nature creates solutions consistently tailored to humans – for the highest good: health.
Most purchased products
For your iron balance
Specially formulated for your iron balance with plant-based curry leaf iron, Lactoferrin CLN®, and natural Vitamin C from rose hips.
For your universal protection
As one of the most valuable proteins in the body, lactoferrin is a natural component of the immune system.
For Healthy Oral Flora & Dental Care
Formulated lozenges with Dentalac®, lactic acid bacteria, and Lactoferrin CLN®Most read entries
3 Posts in this encyclopedia categoryMagnesiumcarbonat
Calorie content
Cologne list
Related search terms: Cerebrospinal fluid analysis-en