CSF Glucose
- Sample Type
- Standard
- Fasting
- No
- Unit
- mg/dL
Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Glucose is analyzed to diagnose central nervous system (CNS) pathologies. It is derived from blood glucose via facilitated transport and simple diffusion. Its primary utility is in the differential diagnosis of meningitis. Bacterial, fungal, and tuberculous meningitis typically result in decreased CSF glucose (hypoglycorrhachia) because these organisms and the accompanying white blood cells consume glucose. Viral meningitis, however, usually presents with a normal CSF glucose level.
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Enter your lab result to see where you stand compared to the standard reference range.
Why Context Matters
CSF glucose must be interpreted relative to simultaneous blood glucose. A low CSF glucose in a patient with systemic hypoglycemia is not indicative of CNS infection. Furthermore, a delay in transporting the CSF sample to the lab can lead to falsely low results due to continued cellular metabolism within the tube.
Lab ranges are statistical averages, not biological laws. "Normal" for a 20-year-old male isn't normal for a 60-year-old female.
Clinical References
Source-of-truth databases and clinical guidelines for CSF Glucose:
Official Sources
Research & Guidelines
- PubMed: CSF Glucose Clinical GuidelinesNCBI / PubMed
Related Indicators
Medically Reviewed by Dr. Binoy Babu, MBBS
Board Certified Doctor • 10+ Years Clinical Experience
Dr. Babu is a practicing physician dedicated to empowering patients with clear, actionable medical information. He founded 2opi to bridge the gap between complex lab reports and patient understanding, ensuring everyone has access to a reliable second opinion.
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