Xanthochromia
| About This Test |
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Department: Biochemistry Requirement:
The 4th CSF fraction should be sent for analysis
Turnaround Time: Within 24 hours |
Background:
Diagnosis of sub-arachnoid haemorrhage following negative CT scan.
Analysis of CSF xanthochromia is only appropriate if:
- At least 12 hours have elapsed since symptom onset
- A CT scan has been performed prior to lumbar puncture with no bleed identified
- Relevant clinical details are provided
CSF samples must be received protected from the light, and should not be transported via the pneumatic pod system.
Other Comments:
Samples are analysed according to national guidelines (Revised national guidelines for analysis of cerebrospinal fluid for bilirubin in suspected subarachnoid haemorrhage; Cruickshank et al. Ann Clin Biochem 2008; 45: 238–244).
Please contact the Duty Biochemist if further discussion is needed.