Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Culture Anaerobic Test Cost and Procedure

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture is a medical laboratory test used to identify microorganisms, such as bacteria, fungi, or viruses, that may be causing an infection in the brain or spinal cord. An anaerobic culture specifically refers to a culture that is grown in the absence of oxygen.

Anaerobic CSF cultures are typically ordered in cases where a bacterial infection in the brain or spinal cord is suspected, especially if the patient has risk factors for anaerobic infections, such as recent surgery or immunosuppression. It can help guide appropriate antibiotic therapy and management of the infection.

Why is CSF Culture (Anaerobic) done?

A CSF culture (anaerobic) is done to identify the presence of bacterial infections in the brain or spinal cord that is caused by anaerobic bacteria. Anaerobic bacteria are those bacteria that can survive and grow in the absence of oxygen. These bacteria can cause serious infections, especially in individuals with a weakened immune system, such as those who have recently undergone surgery or are receiving chemotherapy.

A CSF culture (anaerobic) is typically ordered when a bacterial infection in the brain or spinal cord is suspected, based on symptoms such as fever, headache, neck stiffness, and changes in mental status. It is also ordered when there are risk factors for anaerobic infections, such as recent surgery or immunosuppression.

Identifying the specific bacteria causing the infection can help guide appropriate antibiotic therapy and management of the infection. Without proper treatment, bacterial infections of the brain or spinal cord can cause serious complications, such as meningitis, encephalitis, brain abscess, and sepsis. Therefore, a CSF culture (anaerobic) is an important diagnostic tool that can help in the timely and effective treatment of these infections.

Procedure

An anaerobic CSF culture is performed by taking a sample of CSF from the patient and placing it into a sterile container. The container is then sealed and incubated in a specialized chamber that is devoid of oxygen. This allows anaerobic bacteria that may be present in the sample to grow and multiply.

After a period of incubation, the culture is examined for the presence of any bacterial colonies. The colonies are then identified using various tests, such as Gram staining and biochemical testing, to determine the type of bacteria present.

Cost of CSF Culture (Anaerobic)

The average price for Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Culture Anaerobic test is seen to differ from one center to another. The price range is said to be between  INR 500 to INR 2900 in Delhi, India.