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Test Code
SF
Test Name
Cerebrospinal Fluid Culture
CPT Codes
87070, 87205
Included Tests
  • Gram Stain
  • Aerobic Culture
  • Identification and susceptibility testing if applicable. Additional CPT codes may apply.
Expected Turnaround Time
1 - 3 days
Clinical Utility
Culture of spinal fluid is integral to the rapid identification of bacterial meningitis.
Specimen and Container Info

Specimen: Cerebrospinal Fluid

Collection Container: Sterile, Non-additive Container (CSF)

Desired Volume: 1 mL

Acceptable Minimum Volume: 0.5 mL
Processing and Submission Instructions
  • Transport to the laboratory immediately.
  • Microbiology testing should be performed on Tube 2 if available to limit risk of contamination with normal flora.
Transport Instructions

 Transport to the laboratory at room temperature.

Stability Requirements

Room Temperature

24 hours

Refrigerated

Do not refrigerate prior to culture.

Frozen

 Unacceptable
Methodology
Culture with reflex to additional methods for identification and susceptibility if warranted
Critical Values

HNL Lab Medicine Critical Values
Performing Location
Roble Road Core Laboratory
Alternate Names
  • CSF Culture
  • Culture for Bacterial Meningitis
Testing Schedule
Routine, daily
The American Medical Association (AMA) Current Procedural Terminology (CPT) codes published by HNL Lab Medicine are guidelines and are intended for informational purposes only. CPT coding is the exclusive responsibility of the billing entity. View the Terms.
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