A diagnostic test in which CSF is removed for laboratory testing is called a(n)
Multiple Choice
myelography
electromyogram
lumbar puncture
cerebral angiography
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is lumbar puncture.
A lumbar puncture (also known as a spinal tap) is a diagnostic procedure in which cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is removed from the subarachnoid space in the lower back for testing. This procedure is performed by inserting a needle between the vertebrae in the lower lumbar region (usually between the L3-L4 or L4-L5 vertebrae) to collect a sample of CSF. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.
The CSF that surrounds the brain and spinal cord provides valuable information about the health of the central nervous system. A lumbar puncture can help diagnose a variety of conditions, including infections like meningitis, autoimmune diseases, certain cancers, and neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis. It can also be used to measure the pressure of CSF, which can be elevated in conditions like hydrocephalus or intracranial pressure.
The procedure is generally done under local anesthesia to minimize discomfort. After the test, patients are often advised to rest and hydrate to reduce the risk of side effects, such as headaches. While the lumbar puncture is relatively safe, complications can occur, including infection, bleeding, or injury to the spinal cord, although these are rare.
Other options listed are not relevant to CSF testing. Myelography involves injecting a contrast dye into the spinal cord area for imaging, electromyogram records electrical activity of muscles, and cerebral angiography is an imaging test for blood vessels in the brain. None of these directly involve the removal of CSF.