What Is CSF Composed Of?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

, , , ,

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear,

colourless ultrafiltrate of plasma with low protein content and few cells

. The CSF is mainly produced by the choroid plexus, but also by the ependymal

What is CSF and its function?

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is an ultrafiltrate of plasma contained within the ventricles of the brain and the subarachnoid spaces of the cranium and spine.[1] It performs vital functions,

including providing nourishment, waste removal, and protection to the brain

.[2] Adult CSF volume is estimated to be 150 ml, with a …

What does normal CSF contain?

Normal Results


CSF total protein

: 15 to 60 mg/100 mL. Gamma globulin: 3% to 12% of the total protein. CSF glucose: 50 to 80 mg/100 mL (or greater than two thirds of blood sugar level) CSF cell count: 0 to 5 white blood cells (all mononuclear), and no red blood cells.

Is CSF test painful?

During the procedure: You will lie on your side or sit on an exam table. A health care provider will clean your back and inject an anesthetic into your skin, so you

won’t feel pain during

the procedure. Your provider may put a numbing cream on your back before this injection.

Where is CSF made?

Most CSF is formed in

the cerebral ventricles

. Possible sites of origin include the choroid plexus, the ependyma, and the parenchyma[2]. Anatomically, choroid plexus tissue is floating in the cerebrospinal fluid of the lateral, third, and fourth ventricles.

What does CSF look like?

Normal CSF is

a clear, colorless fluid

that contains small quantities of glucose (a sugar) and protein. CSF surrounds the outside of the brain and spinal cord and also fills the ventricles (spaces) of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord.

What is CSF used to diagnose?


Infections

, such as meningitis and encephalitis—testing is used to determine if infection is caused by bacteria, viruses or, less commonly, by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, fungi or parasites, and to distinguish them from other conditions. CSF testing may also be used to detect infections of or near the spinal cord.

What increases CSF production?

The increased CSF production is the result of an

increased activity of Na

+

-K

+

ATPase at the choroid plexus level

, which establishes a sodium gradient across the choroid epithelial cells, as well as of an elevated CBF (66).

Is CSF test safe?


The CSF culture is not dangerous

, though CSF collection does have risks. Risks of lumbar puncture include: discomfort or pain during the procedure. bleeding into the spinal cord, particularly in people who take blood thinners or have a low platelet count (thrombocytopenia)

How is a CSF leak diagnosed?

Diagnosis of a cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak:

Diagnosing a CSF leak includes

an analysis of the nasal fluid for a protein called beta-2 transferrin

which is most only found in cerebrospinal fluid. CT and MRI scans may also be require to determine the location and severity of the leakage.

How much does a CSF test cost?

City Average Price Starting Price Mumbai Rs. 788.00 Rs. 400.00 Nalgonda Rs. 440.00 Rs. 200.00 Delhi

Rs. 565.00


Rs. 150.00
Noida Rs. 459.00 Rs. 200.00

How does CSF leave the brain?

From the fourth ventricle, the CSF may

exit through the foramen of Lushka laterally

, or the foramen of Magendie medially to the subarachnoid space. Passing through the foramen of Magendie results in filling of the spinal subarachnoid space.

How is CSF absorbed?

It has traditionally been thought that CSF is absorbed

through tiny, specialized cell clusters called arachnoid villi near the top and midline of the brain

. The CSF then passes through the arachnoid villi into the superior sagittal sinus, a large vein, and is absorbed into the bloodstream.

What part of the brain is filled with cerebrospinal fluid?

Overview.

The ventricles of the brain

are a communicating network of cavities filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and located within the brain parenchyma.

Is CSF leak an emergency?

If a CSF leak is suspected, you should see a physician as soon as possible. If symptoms of meningitis (high fever, light sensitivity, neck stiffness) are suspected,

you should go to the emergency room

.

What happens if CSF leak is not treated?

Untreated CSF leaks can lead to

life-threatening meningitis, brain infections, or stroke

. UT Southwestern specialists offer rapid, accurate diagnosis of this dangerous condition, world-class surgical services to correct it, and pre- and post-surgical care that optimizes each patient’s treatment and recovery.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.