Spinal Fluid ( Cerebrospinal Spinal Fluid) Analysis

Cerebrospinal Fluid is fluid found in the subarachnoid space, surrounding the brain and spinal cord.  The subarachnoid space is the area between the tough outermost membrane layer ( called the dura mater), and the softer innermost layer ( the pia mater), that covers the brain and spinal cord.  The cerebrospinal fluid is produced by specialized cells ( called the choroid plexus), lining the fluid chambers ( lateral ventricles), inside each of the two brain hemispheres.  The fluid chambers ( lateral ventricles), inside each of the two brain hemispheres.  The fluid is constantly produced and moves along channels in the brain and on the outside of the brain and spinal cord within the subarachnoid space.  the fluid is absorbed by cells within the arachnoid layer.

Cerebrospinal Fluid Tap (CSF Tap), is a procedure in which a sterile needle is introduced into the membrane covered fluid space around the spinal cord to collect cerebrospinal fluid that bathes and protects the brain and spinal cord.  The fluid is the analyzed to give clues about the conditions that may be affecting the brain and spinal cord.  Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is critical when Central Nervous System inflammation or a degenerative condition of the brain or spinal cord is suspected.

What Happens During a CSF Tap?

There are two different types of spinal taps:  cisternal and lumbar.  General anesthesia is necessary to perform the procedure.  To perform a cisternal tap, the back of the neck is shaved and sterilized.  A spinal needle is inserted at the base of the skull, between two vertebrae and into the spinal column subarachnoid space.  The fluid is allowed to drip into a collection tube.  A lumbar tap or "puncture' is similar but performed in the lower back of a patient.  CSF chemical and cellular analysis ( white cell/differential cell count and protein levels) and CSF pressure can all be determined with this diagnostic test.

How Can a CSF Tap Help My Pet?

A CSF analysis, in most cases, provide direct information about the central Nervous System with minimal risk.  A simple of this fluid can help in the diagnosis of inflammation, viral or bacterial infection, and degenerative conditions of the brain and spinal cord.

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