Determining the presence of cerebrospinal fluid in body fluids The diagnosis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea or otorrhea (leakage of CSF into the nose or ear canal, usually as a result of head trauma, tumor, congenital malformation, or surgery) is often difficult to confirm. Traditional chemical analyses (eg, glucose, protein, specific gravity) are unreliable. Radiographic studies, especially those involving the injection of dyes or radiographic compounds, are costly and may introduce additional risks to the patient. Prompt diagnosis and localization facilitates appropriate decisions and decreases the risk of meningitis.
Beta-trace protein (prostaglandin D synthase) is one of the most abundant proteins in CSF and has a very low concentration in other body fluids. Elevated concentrations of beta-trace protein in body fluid or drainage are consistent with CSF leakage.
Specimen Type
Body Fluid
Container
Sterile
Collection Instructions
Container/Tube: Sterile Container Specimen: 1mL Body fluid (0.5 m) Indicate on the sample Transport Temperature: Refrigerated
Transport Instructions
Specimen Stability
14 Days Room Temperature 14 days Refrigerated 30 days Frozen
