White Blood Cell Differential (Manual Count) from Cerebrospinal Fluid

Why This Test Is Done

Doctors may order this test if you have symptoms like headaches, neck stiffness, fever, confusion, or neurological problems that suggest conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, or other spinal fluid disorders. It helps identify whether infections, immune responses, or other factors are present in your spinal fluid.

What to Expect During the Procedure

A small amount of spinal fluid is collected through a needle inserted into your lower back. The sample is then examined under a microscope to count and identify different types of white blood cells. This is typically done manually for detailed analysis.

How the Results Are Interpreted

Results show the percentage and absolute count of different white blood cell types (e.g., neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes) in your spinal fluid. Elevated counts of certain cells can indicate specific conditions, such as bacterial infections (neutrophils), viral infections (lymphocytes), or inflammatory diseases.

Common Conditions Influencing Results

High levels of neutrophils may suggest bacterial meningitis or other infections. Increased lymphocytes could indicate viral infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers. Monocytes may appear in chronic inflammatory conditions or certain infections.