Lactate (CSF)

18 days

Enzymatic spectrophotometry (lactate oxidase)

Accredited Laboratory Partner

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) lactate is an adjunctive test that may help differentiate bacterial meningitis from aseptic (typically viral) meningitis. CSF lactate is produced primarily within the central nervous system through anarobic glycolysis and is largely independent of blood lactate concentrations. Elevated CSF lactate levels, particularly >3.9 mmol/L, are suggestive of bacterial meningitis, while lower concentrations are more consistent with aseptic meningitis. Results should always be interpreted in conjunction with CSF cell count and differential, protein, glucose, microbiologic culture, molecular testing, and clinical findings. Because elevated CSF lactate is not specific for bacterial meningitis, increased concentrations may also be observed in other neurologic conditions associated with cerebral hypoxia or impaired oxidative metabolism, including stroke, intracranial hemorrhage, hydrocephalus, traumatic brain injury, cerebral edema, seizure disorders, and certain inborn errors of metabolism.

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from a lumbar puncture (LP)

1 mL

Sterile screw capped vial

No special preparation is required for this test. You may eat, drink, and take your medications as normal, unless instructed otherwise by your healthcare provider.

Sample Collection and Handling Instructions Single-Tube Collection (if no additional testing is ordered): Collect the entire sample into a single sterile tube from a standard LP.