Cerebrospinal Fluid White Blood Cell Count (Manual Differential)

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, fever, confusion, or neurological problems. It’s often performed when other tests suggest an infection, bleeding, or swelling in the brain or spinal cord.

What to Expect Before the Test

You’ll likely have a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) where a small needle is inserted into your lower back to collect CSF. The procedure is quick but may cause mild discomfort. No special preparation is needed, but inform your doctor about any medications or allergies.

What Happens During the Test

The collected CSF is examined under a microscope to count and identify different types of white blood cells. The manual method involves a skilled technician counting cells by hand for greater accuracy, especially in cases where automated methods might miss subtle details.

What the Results Mean

Results show the total number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the CSF, along with their types (e.g., neutrophils, lymphocytes). Elevated counts may indicate infection (e.g., bacterial meningitis), inflammation, or other conditions like multiple sclerosis.