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Cerebrospinal fluid: cytology
Synonym(s): CSF
Overview
- Cell characteristics vary in septic, inflammatory and neoplastic conditions.
- Changes most dramatic with inflammation.
- The type and number of cells helps identify the cause.
Uses
Alone
- Diagnosis of central nervous system (CNS) pathology.
In combination
- With total cell counts and protein analysis: to determine the likely underlying cause of disease.
Other points
- Cytology is most reliable in the early stages of disease.
Sampling
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Tests
Methodologies
- Air dry slide.
Availability
- Widely available at commercial laboratories.
- Smears can be examined in practice.
Validity
Specificity
- Cytological changes are often non-specific.
Technique intrinsic limitations
- CSF may be contaminated with blood.
- Cytology may change as disease progresses.
Technician extrinsic limitations
- Some experience is necessary in interpreting cell types in cytologic preparations.
Result Data
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Further Reading
Publications
Refereed Papers
- Recent references from PubMed and VetMedResource.
- Melillo A (2007) Rabbit clinical pathology. J Exotic Pet Med 16 (3), 135-145 ExoticPetMedicine.
Other sources of information
- Keeble E (2014) Nervous system and musculoskeletal disorders. In: Manual of Rabbit Medicine. Eds: Meredith A & Lord B. BSAVA. pp 214-231.
- Wesche P (2014) Clinical pathology. In: Manual of Rabbit Medicine. Eds: Meredith A & Lord B. BSAVA. pp 124-137.