Cerebrospinal Fluid Cell Count (with Differential)
This test measures the number of cells in your cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), including white blood cells, red blood cells, and sometimes a breakdown of different types of white blood cells. It helps assess conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.
["A CSF cell count helps diagnose or monitor infections, inflammation, or bleeding in the central nervous system."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 57426-9
- Short code
- CD71BF
- Synonyms
- CD71 Cells NFr Fld
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Sterile body fluid collection container; anticoagulated tube (EDTA or heparin) preferred for flow cytometry analysis to prevent clotting
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- Flow cytometry using fluorescently labeled monoclonal antibodies against CD71 (transferrin receptor)
- CPT
- 88184
- SNOMED
- 399080008
- Specimen volume
- Minimum 1-2 mL of body fluid; larger volumes (5-10 mL) preferred when available for adequate cell yield
- Stability
- Specimen should be processed within 4-6 hours of collection at room temperature (18-25°C). Refrigeration (2-8°C) may extend stability to 24 hours but may affect cell viability and CD71 expression. Do not freeze.
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, confusion, fever, or neurological issues. It’s often used to check for conditions such as meningitis, brain tumors, multiple sclerosis, or traumatic brain injury.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely have a small needle inserted into your spine (usually in the lower back) to collect CSF. The procedure is quick but may cause mild discomfort. You may be asked to lie still for a few minutes afterward.
What the Results Mean
Normal results vary, but typically show a low number of white blood cells (indicating no infection) and no red blood cells (unless trauma occurred). Abnormal results may signal inflammation, infection, bleeding, or other neurological conditions.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test helps diagnose or track conditions like bacterial or viral meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, multiple sclerosis, or other brain/spinal cord disorders.
Reference range
Reference ranges vary by laboratory; CD71 expression is typically assessed as percentage of positive cells or median fluorescence intensity (MFI). CD71+ cells are generally low in peripheral blood/body fluid under normal conditions. Consult laboratory-specific reference values.N/A
No special patient preparation required. However, recent transfusions, immunosuppressive therapy, or chemotherapy may affect results and should be documented.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
CSF Cell Count
Frequently asked questions
What does a ‘differential’ mean in this test?
Can I eat or drink before this test?
How long does it take to get results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
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.
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