![]() ![]() Pressure above normal can cause problems. Assess and measure the pressure of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the space surrounding the spinal cord.Diagnose diseases of the brain and spinal cord, such as multiple sclerosis (MS) or Guillain-Barré syndrome.Diagnose infection such as meningitis, inflammation, cancer, or bleeding in the area around the brain or spinal cord.Lumbar punctures are most commonly performed to test the cerebrospinal fluid to detect or rule out suspected diseases or conditions. The spinal cord typically ends at L1 level in adults and slightly lower in children. In unusual circumstances, the spinal tap can be done at higher levels. Lumbar puncture is performed in the spaces between the lumbar vertebrae located in the lower back, usually at the L4-L5 level. Some of the CSF fluid samples may be put into a special culture cup to see if bacteria or fungi grow, indicating the presence of infection. The samples are studied for colour and clarity, blood cell counts and other substances such as protein and glucose. CSF is the fluid which surrounds the brain and spinal cord.ĭuring a lumbar puncture, a needle is inserted into the spinal canal through the lower back or lumbar region to collect samples of CSF and to measure the pressure in the fluid. Home / Conditions / Diagnostics / Lumbar Puncture Lumbar PunctureĪ lumbar puncture, also called a spinal tap, is a common medical procedure that involves the insertion of a needle into the spinal canal to obtain a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for examination. ![]()
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