cerebrospinal fluid
Clear fluid that circulates around the brain and spinal cord, commonly abbreviated as CSF in clinical documentation.
Full Definition
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is a clear, colorless liquid that surrounds and cushions the central nervous system, produced primarily by the choroid plexus in the brain ventricles. CSF analysis is a crucial diagnostic tool in neurology, providing information about infections, inflammatory conditions, malignancies, and metabolic disorders affecting the nervous system. Normal CSF contains very few cells and specific protein and glucose concentrations that change characteristically in disease states. Documentation should specify collection method, appearance, cell count, protein levels, glucose content, and any special studies performed on the specimen.
Usage
Usage note: Always spell out in full on first use, then abbreviate as CSF; avoid informal term 'spinal fluid' in formal documentation.
In Context
- "Cerebrospinal fluid analysis revealed elevated protein and decreased glucose consistent with bacterial meningitis." — Laboratory report
- "The patient's cerebrospinal fluid was xanthochromic, suggesting recent subarachnoid hemorrhage." — Emergency department note