Pathology tests database

Sample and container requirements

Fluoride oxalate tube

Minimum volume required

Special requirements

Preferably tap #2 Sent immediately to the laboratory (not via pod system, take by hand to specimen reception)

Patient preparation

No specific patient preparation required

Sample viability

Turnaround time

This assay is run throughout the day and night. The in-lab turnaround time is normally less than 24 hours.

Reference range

0 – 16 years: 3.3 – 4.4 mmol/L Adults: 2.2 – 3.9 mmol/L (Source: Abbott Diagnostics)

Clinical guidance

CSF glucose is measured to aid the investigation of meningitis and other disorders affecting the central nervous system. Interpretation should be made alongside a paired blood glucose sample taken as close as possible to the lumbar puncture (ideally within 30–60 minutes). A low CSF glucose concentration may indicate bacterial, tuberculous or fungal meningitis, malignant infiltration of the meninges, or other conditions associated with impaired glucose transport or increased glucose consumption. Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with CSF protein, cell count, microbiology findings, and the clinical picture.

Notes

Please send a paired plasma glucose sample to aid interpretation of results.