Question

Often, the sampled CSF is tested for bacteria or viruses if a brain infection is suspected. Why would CSF sample from the spinal cord give you information about the condition of the brain?
Would you withdraw CSF if needle were accidentally inserted into the epidural space instead of the subarachnoid space? Why or why not?

Answer 1

1. CSF stands for Cerebrospinal Fluid. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis is usually done to investigate the presence of infective agents in the brain. The CSF is produced by the choroid plexus which is located in the brain. After production, the fluid is released into the blood stream and it is reabsorbed and replaced every few hours. The fluid flows around the brain and the spinal cord and provides protection for the organs, it also carry away their wastes. Thus, the CSF from the spinal cord will give one information about the condition of the brain because, the CSF in the spinal cord is continuous with that in the brain, therefore any foreign object that is present in the brain will also be seen in the CSF fluid of the spinal cord.

2. If the spinal needle is accidentally inserted into the epidural space, it must be withdrawn immediately. This is necessary in order not to pierce and consequently damage the spinal cord. This may result in paralysis. Epidural space is only used for administration of therapeutic substances, spinal injection must not be inserted in the epidural space. <span />