This is a test used to detect the presence of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, and fungus) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) causing infection. CSF is a clear fluid that circulates in the space surrounding the spinal cord. The CSF protects the brain and spinal cord from injury and physical shocks, and carries products of neurosecretions (chemicals released by the neural tissue), chemicals in the cells, and chemical changes in the cells.

Alternative Names

Culture - CSF (cerebral spinal fluid); Spinal fluid culture