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Cerebrospinal Fluid Xanthochromia (Qualitative)

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test checks for the yellowish coloration in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which can occur when there is bleeding or breakdown of red blood cells in the brain or spinal cord.

Quick summary

["Xanthochromia in CSF may signal bleeding or blood breakdown in the central nervous system."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
13532-7
Short code
Xanthochromia CSF Ql
Synonyms
Xanthochromia CSF Ql
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, vision changes, or neurological issues. It helps determine if bleeding inside the brain or spinal cord (such as subarachnoid hemorrhage) is present, even if other tests like CT scans are normal.

What Does a Positive Result Mean?

A positive result (yellowish CSF) often suggests recent bleeding or red blood cell breakdown in the central nervous system. This can be linked to conditions like traumatic brain injury, aneurysms, or other causes of bleeding in the brain or spinal canal.

How Is the Test Performed?

A small amount of CSF is collected through a procedure called lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then examined under a microscope or tested for color changes to detect xanthochromia. No special preparation is needed, but you may need to rest for a short time afterward.

What Are Common Causes?

Xanthochromia in CSF can result from bleeding in the brain or spinal canal, such as from a subarachnoid hemorrhage, traumatic injury, or certain infections. It may also appear in conditions like multiple sclerosis or other inflammatory processes affecting the central nervous system.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

CSF Xanthochromia

Frequently asked questions

What symptoms might lead to this test?
Symptoms such as sudden, severe headaches, neck stiffness, nausea, vision changes, or neurological deficits (like weakness or numbness) may prompt this test. It’s often used as a follow-up when other imaging tests are inconclusive.
How soon after bleeding might xanthochromia appear?
Xanthochromia typically develops within 12 to 24 hours after bleeding in the central nervous system, though timing can vary based on the cause and how quickly red blood cells break down.
Can xanthochromia be caused by something other than bleeding?
Yes, while bleeding is the most common cause, xanthochromia can also occur with certain infections, inflammation, or other conditions affecting the CSF, though these are less frequent.
  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 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy