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Cerebrospinal Fluid Cell Count (with Differential)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 15, 2026

This test measures the number of cells in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), including white blood cells, red blood cells, and sometimes specific types of white blood cells like neutrophils or lymphocytes. It helps assess conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.

Quick summary

["A CSF cell count can reveal inflammation, infection, or bleeding in your nervous system."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 15, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
26563-7
Short code
CD1a
Synonyms
CD1a Cells NFr Spec
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Lavender-top (EDTA) tube for whole blood analysis; sterile collection container for tissue or bone marrow specimens
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Method
Flow cytometry with fluorescent-labeled monoclonal antibodies against CD1a surface marker
CPT
86356
SNOMED
116647005
Specimen volume
3-5 mL of whole blood for peripheral blood analysis; 1-2 mL for bone marrow aspirate; tissue specimens as available
Stability
Specimens should be processed within 24 hours of collection when kept at room temperature (18-25°C). For delays beyond 24 hours, refrigerate at 2-8°C and process within 48 hours. Do not freeze specimens intended for flow cytometry analysis.
Hemolysis max
100
Lipemia max
100
Icterus max
50
TAT
24–72 hours
Order
routine

Why This Test Is Done

Your doctor may order a CSF cell count if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, fever, or neurological issues. It’s often part of a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) procedure to collect CSF for further testing.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast or avoid certain medications. On the day of the test, wear comfortable clothing and bring any prescribed medications with you.

How the Test Is Performed

A healthcare provider will insert a needle into your lower back to collect a small amount of CSF. You may feel pressure or a slight sting, but it usually doesn’t cause pain. The sample is then analyzed under a microscope to count cells.

What the Results Mean

The results show the total cell count and sometimes the types of cells present. High cell counts (especially white blood cells) may indicate infections (like meningitis), inflammation, or bleeding. Low counts may suggest normal findings or other conditions like low CSF production.

Reference range

CD1a-positive cells are not typically detected in normal peripheral blood serum. Results are interpreted in the context of cell-based immunophenotyping when applicable. Reference values vary by specimen type and clinical context; consult laboratory-specific reference ranges.N/A

Specimen: serum

No special patient preparation is typically required for CD1a cell analysis. However, if testing is performed on peripheral blood, recent corticosteroid therapy or chemotherapy may affect cell populations and should be documented. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of any recent immunosuppressive treatments.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Clinical Significance

Short name

CSF Cell Count

Frequently asked questions

What does a high or low cell count indicate?
A high cell count in CSF is often linked to infections (e.g., bacterial or viral meningitis), autoimmune diseases (e.g., multiple sclerosis), or bleeding into the spinal canal. A low cell count may suggest normal findings, but could also indicate conditions like low CSF production or certain neurological disorders.
How long does it take to get results?
Results are typically available within a few hours to a couple of days, depending on the lab. Your doctor will discuss them with you during a follow-up visit.
Can I drink alcohol before the test?
No, avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test, as it may affect the accuracy of the CSF sample.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

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 15, 2026. · Read our editorial policy