Test Directory
CSF Xanthochromia
Containers - Adult
Sterile Universal 20ml
|
Volume Range
0.2 ml
Additive per Container
None |
Reference ranges
Haem pigment not normally detected.
Laboratory Site
Old Dalkeith Road
Edinburgh
EH16 4SA
Edinburgh
EH4 2XU
Transport arrangements
Sample must be hand delivered to the laboratory within 30 min of collection. The pneumatic tube system must not be used since this may result in the lysis of any red cells, which may cause a false positive result.
Sample storage arrangements
Protect CSF sample for xanthochromia from light using aluminium foil or brown paper.
Special instructions for collection
If this procedure is not followed analysis is likely to be compromised
The CSF sample must be collected at least 12 hours after acute event.
The specimen for spectroscopy should be the least blood-stained fraction of CSF taken - usually the last and ideally at least the fourth.
The specimen should be protected from light.
A simultaneous blood specimen (brown cap tube) should be collected and sent, requesting total protein and bilirubin.
Avoid use of pneumatic tube system - hand deliver samples to the laboratory.
Anticipated turnaround
1 day
General additional information
Service available:
Mon - Fri: 09:00 - 16:15
Sat - Sun: 09:00 - 12:00