Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Csf
What is this test?
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) may be cultured to test the sensitivity of the bacteria. This test helps in diagnosing infection of the central nervous system (CNS). The goal is to see if there is an anaerobic infection present in the cerebrospinal fluid. This test is performed on the cerebrospinal fluid collected by your healthcare provider. If there is a growth of bacteria in the culture, then it may indicate that there is an infection.
What is cerebrospinal fluid?
The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord. There is a fluid which moves in the space around the spinal cord, this fluid is called cerebrospinal fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid is a clear, colorless liquid. It helps in the protection of the central nervous system. It provides nutrients to the brain and spine and helps in the elimination of the waste products.
What are anaerobic bacteria?
Anaerobic bacteria are bacteria that can not survive in the presence of oxygen. Some of the examples of anaerobic bacteria are Staphylococcus, E.Coli, Clostridium, Actinomyces, Acetobacterium, etc. The growth of anaerobic bacteria causes anaerobic infections. Anaerobic infections can occur when deep tissues are injured or exposed. This can occur due to surgery or trauma, etc. The risk factors of getting an anaerobic infection are diabetes, a weak immune system, low blood flow, staph infection, open wounds, etc. The common symptoms of anaerobic infection are smelly discharge, pus-filled abscess, discoloration of the infected area, etc.
Why this test is performed?
This test may be recommended to you if you experience certain conditions like decreased speech, differences in the mental processes, increased confusion, decreased responsiveness, irritation, decreased sensation, decreased movement due to loss of muscle function, changes in vision, changes in personality or behavior, sensitivity to light, fever, chills, neck stiffness especially when it occurs with fever and chills, etc. This test may be specially performed to check if the infection is due to anaerobic bacteria or not. This test is also recommended to plan the treatment according to the type of bacteria. The test is also recommended to check the effectiveness of the treatment given.
Also known as C/S Anaerobic CSF.
Test Preparation
Inform your doctor if you are on any medications, have any allergies or underlying medical conditions before your Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Csf. Your doctor will give specific instructions depending on your condition on how to prepare for Culture And Sensitivity Anaerobic Csf.
No specific preparation is required for this cerebrospinal fluid culture and sensitivity test.
Understanding your test results
The normal test results may vary depending on age, health history, medical condition, etc.
If your test results show negative it means there is no growth of anaerobic bacteria.
If your test results show positive it may indicate that you may have an anaerobic bacterial infection in the central nervous system.
If you get abnormal test results, consult your doctor immediately with your lab test reports.
| Gender | Age groups | Value |
| UNISEX | All age groups | The growth depends on the infecting organism. Clearing around the disc indicates organism is sensitive to antibiotic |