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Test Code LAB268 Culture, Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF), Aerobic

Important Note

Use test code LAB268 for CSF from a Ventric Drain or VP Shunt Aspirate

Use LAB93003 CSF Bacterial/Viral Panel Detection (lumbar puncture only)

Additional Codes

44021

Reporting Title

CSF Aerobic Culture

Methodology

Includes Gram stain, aerobic identification, and susceptibilities when appropriate.

Performing Laboratory

OhioHealth Laboratory Services-RMH Microbiology

Specimen Requirements

1. Submit at least 1 mL of spinal fluid from a Ventric Drain or VP Shunt Aspirate in a sterile collection tube.

2. Label tube with patient’s name (first and last), date and actual time of collection, and type of specimen.

3. Maintain sterility and forward promptly at ambient temperature only.

Note:  1. Specimen source is required on request form for processing.

2. If specimen is collected in multiple tubes, submit tube #2 to Microbiology.

Specimen Transport Temperature

Ambient/Refrigerate NO/Frozen NO

Reference Values

No growth after 72 hours

Critical value:  all positives

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Sunday

Test Classification and CPT Coding

87070 - aerobic culture

87205 - Gram stain

87077 - definitive identification, each (if appropriate)

87147 - serotyping, each (if appropriate)

87181 - E-test, each (if appropriate)

87185 - enzyme detection, each (if appropriate)

87186 - susceptibility, minimum inhibitory concentration, each (if appropriate)