TEST CATALOG ORDERING & RESULTS SPECIMEN HANDLING CUSTOMER SERVICE EDUCATION & INSIGHTS
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Test ID: GLSF    
Glucose, Spinal Fluid

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Useful For Suggests clinical disorders or settings where the test may be helpful

Investigating possible central nervous system infection

Clinical Information Discusses physiology, pathophysiology, and general clinical aspects, as they relate to a laboratory test

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is secreted by the choroid plexuses, around the cerebral vessels, and along the walls of the ventricles of the brain, filling the ventricles and cisternae and bathing the spinal cord. CSF is reabsorbed into the blood through the arachnoid villi. CSF turnover is rapid, exchanging about 4 times per day.

 

CSF glucose levels may be decreased due to consumption by microorganisms, impaired glucose transport, or increased glycolysis. Elevated CSF glucose levels are consistent with hyperglycemia.

Reference Values Describes reference intervals and additional information for interpretation of test results. May include intervals based on age and sex when appropriate. Intervals are Mayo-derived, unless otherwise designated. If an interpretive report is provided, the reference value field will state this.

Spinal fluid glucose concentration should be approximately 60% of the plasma/serum concentration and should be compared with concurrently measured plasma/serum glucose for adequate clinical interpretation.

 

For SI unit Reference Values, see International System of Units (SI) Conversion

Interpretation Provides information to assist in interpretation of the test results

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) glucose levels may be decreased in any central nervous system infection, although levels are typically normal in viral meningitis, low in bacterial meningitis, and may be normal or low in fungal meningitis.

 

CSF glucose levels are normally about 60% of blood glucose levels.

Cautions Discusses conditions that may cause diagnostic confusion, including improper specimen collection and handling, inappropriate test selection, and interfering substances

Handle specimens in stoppered containers to avoid contamination and evaporation.

 

Cerebrospinal fluid specimens should be processed without delay; they may contain cellular constituents, as well as organisms, that lower the concentration of glucose with time.

Clinical Reference Recommendations for in-depth reading of a clinical nature

Tietz Textbook of Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics. Edited by CA Burtis, ER Ashwood, DE Bruns, St. Louis, MO, Elsevier Saunders, 2012