CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid) Testing
At Veterinary Neurology Center, we offer a comprehensive range of neurodiagnostic services designed to help identify neurological conditions in pets.
Our services include:
- CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid) Analysis
- Electrodiagnostic Testing, such as EMG and EEG
- Digital Radiography
What is CSF and How Do We Analyze It?
Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) is a clear, water-like fluid that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. It is essential for cushioning and nourishing the central nervous system. When infections or inflammation occur in the brain or its coverings, CSF can show abnormal changes, often providing critical clues for diagnosing conditions like encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis (inflammation of the brain's protective layers).
CSF is collected using sterile techniques from either the neck or lower back of your pet, all while your pet is under anesthesia. This process is minimally invasive and typically painless for your pet.
Why Might Your Pet Need a CSF Tap (spinal tap)?
CSF testing is often recommended when we suspect an infection or inflammation in the nervous system. Conditions that may prompt a CSF analysis include:
- Immune-Mediated Meningitis/Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain and its coverings), also known as meningoencephalitis of unknown origin (MUO or MUE)
- Immune-Mediated Myelitis (inflammation of the spinal cord)
- Infectious Meningoencephalomyelitis (infection of the brain, spinal cord, and their coverings)
Signs of these conditions can include:
- Seizures
- Behavioral changes
- Weakness
- Spinal pain
If your pet shows these symptoms, a CSF analysis can help pinpoint the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment.
Is CSF Collection Safe for Your Pet?
CSF collection is a standard procedure performed regularly by our experienced neurologists. While rare, complications such as bleeding or infection can occur. However, these risks are minimized with the use of sterile technique. In humans, spinal taps are often associated with headaches, but this is not typically an issue for pets due to their horizontal spine structure. Additionally, MRI scans are usually performed before a CSF tap to identify any potential anatomical concerns that could increase risks.
Why Choose Veterinary Neurology Center for Your Pet's CSF Tap?
Our board-certified neurologists have years of training in neurosurgery and extensive experience performing spinal and brain surgery. At Veterinary Neurology Center, we oftentimes can conduct a CSF tap immediately following an MRI, while your pet is still under anesthesia, streamlining the process and ensuring comfort for your pet during this thorough approach to diagnosis.
Once the CSF analysis is complete, we will explain the results in detail and discuss the next steps. Depending on the findings, we may recommend additional tests to detect specific infections or begin life-saving treatment to address your pet's condition.
Contact Us Today
If your pet is showing signs of neurological distress, contact Veterinary Neurology Center today. Your family veterinarian or emergency veterinary can arrange this referral. Our compassionate team is here to support you and your pet every step of the way.