Bacteriacsfla
A laboratory test that detects and identifies specific bacteria in cerebrospinal fluid using latex agglutination technology, primarily used to diagnose infections of the central nervous system.
{"This test identifies bacteria causing meningitis or encephalitis from a spinal fluid sample","Results are typically available within hours, faster than traditional culture methods","Common targets include Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis, Haemophilus influenzae, and E. coli","A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) is required to collect the CSF sample","Early diagnosis is critical as CNS infections can be life-threatening"}
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 75518-1
- Short code
- CSF BACT LAT
- Synonyms
- Bacteria CSF LA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- csf
- Container
- Sterile CSF collection tubes (tube 3 or 4 typically preferred for microbiology to minimize skin contamination). Transport at room temperature or refrigerated.
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 0–120 years
- Method
- Latex Agglutination Test (LAT) for bacterial antigen detection
- CPT
- 86403
- SNOMED
- 395087006
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1 mL of cerebrospinal fluid; 2-3 mL preferred for optimal sensitivity
- Stability
- Room temperature: 2 hours; Refrigerated (2-8°C): 24 hours; Frozen (-70°C): longer storage if needed. Process as soon as possible after collection.
- Hemolysis max
- 200
- TAT
- 1–4 hours
- Order
- routine
What is this test?
The Cerebrospinal Fluid Bacteria Latex Agglutination Test is a rapid diagnostic test that detects specific bacterial antigens in CSF. During the test, latex particles coated with antibodies are mixed with the CSF sample. If the targeted bacterial antigens are present, the latex particles will clump together (agglutinate), indicating a positive result. This method can identify common causative organisms of bacterial meningitis within hours, allowing for prompt antibiotic treatment.
The test is typically performed when a patient shows symptoms of meningitis (such as severe headache, stiff neck, fever, and sensitivity to light) or other central nervous system infections. It is often ordered along with other CSF tests including cell count, glucose, protein, and bacterial culture.
Reference range
Negative (No bacterial antigens detected). Positive results indicate presence of specific bacterial antigens including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis (Groups A, B, C, Y, W135), Haemophilus influenzae type b, Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Strep), and Escherichia coli K1.N/A
No fasting required. Inform clinician of any recent antibiotic use as it may reduce antigen detection sensitivity. Lumbar puncture is performed under sterile conditions by qualified personnel.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings2
Frequently asked questions
How is the CSF sample collected?
How long does it take to get results?
Does a negative result mean I don't have an infection?
Is the test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2
- 3
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy