Sample type: CSF

Test name: Xanthochromia a.k.a. CSF Spectroscopy, oxyhaemoglobin, CSF bilirubin

Condition / Indication: Subarrachnoid Haemorrhage (SAH)

Special precautions & notes: Only of value in CT negative patients. CSF must be taken at least 12 hours post onset of symptoms. Record the opening pressure. The last bottle of four (or the least blood-stained) minimum 1 mL (25 drops)must be submitted for analysis. Once appropriately labelled protect sample from light (thick brown envelope) at all times, and send to the laboratory immediately. Please also include a venous blood sample (Serum - Gold top) for LFT.

Reference range: Qualitative report

Container: Universal (white top)

Ideal volume (mL): 1 mL

Referred outside NBT for analysis? No

Discipline: Clinical Biochemistry

Section: Automated Laboratory

Turnaround time: 4 hours

Further information: Please indicate the following on the request form: Clinical indication, CT result, Time of onset of symptoms/event, time of LP. Outside working hours please contact the on-call BMS.