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Department

Biochemistry

Preferred Sample Type

Glucose (CSF)

Suitable Specimen Types

  • Fluoride Oxalate
5-10 mL vacutainer (minimum sample volume 50 uL)

Sample Processing in Laboratory

Usual

Sample Preparation

Analysis should be undertaken promptly because glucose metabolism continues after the sample has been aspirated.

Turnaround Time

1 day

Sample Stability

If unable to analyse sample immediately, store at 4 ºC.

Glucose (CSF)

General Information

CSF glucose or glycorrhachia is a measurement used to determine the levels of glucose in cerebrospinal fluid. Normal levels are about 2/3 the concentration of blood glucose. Glucose levels may decrease when cells that are not normally present metabolise the glucose. These may include bacteria or cells present due to inflammation (WBCs) or shed by tumours.

CSF glucose will therefore be decreased in bacterial meningitis, tuberculous meningitis and subarachnoid haemorrhage. Glucose levels are usually within normal limits in viral or aseptic meningitis.

Patient Preparation

None

Notes

None Given

Reference Range

Infant/child: 3.33-4.44nmol/L

Adult: 2.22-3.89 mmol/L

(Usually approx 60% of serum glucose value)

Source : Abbott Diagnostics

Specifications

  • EQA Scheme?: Yes
  • EQA Status:

    Neqas