lumbar puncture
Also written as: LP — lumbar puncture
Diagnostic procedure involving needle insertion into the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid.
Full Definition
A lumbar puncture, also known as a spinal tap, is a medical procedure in which a needle is inserted into the subarachnoid space in the lumbar region of the spinal canal to collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for diagnostic analysis. In neurology practice, lumbar punctures are performed to diagnose conditions such as meningitis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, multiple sclerosis, and various inflammatory or infectious neurological disorders. The procedure involves measuring opening pressure and analyzing CSF for cell count, protein levels, glucose concentration, and the presence of pathogens or abnormal proteins. Contraindications include increased intracranial pressure with mass effect and bleeding disorders.
Usage
Usage note: LP is the standard abbreviation; avoid 'spinal tap' in formal clinical documentation.
In Context
- "Lumbar puncture revealed elevated white cell count and low glucose, consistent with bacterial meningitis." — emergency department procedure note
- "The patient consented to lumbar puncture for oligoclonal band testing to evaluate for multiple sclerosis." — outpatient procedure consent