Why Is the Lumbar Puncture Procedure Performed?
This procedure may be performed to: • Measure the pressure around the brain and spinal cord. • Relieve pressure in the head. • Give spinal anesthesia. • Inject dye for an X-ray diagnostic test. • Inject medications (such as haclofen). Testing the CSF can help in the diagnosis of disorders of the central nervous system that may involve the brain, spinal cord or their coverings (meninges). The CSF contains glucose (sugar), proteins and other substances found in the blood. When the CSF is examined in the laboratory, the following are evaluated: • The number and types of white blood cells. • The level of glucose. • The types and levels of proteins. • The presence of bacteria, fungi or abnormal cells. NOTE: Testing of the CSF may not be necessary if the spinal tap procedure is done to inject a medication (such as haclofen).
