Lactate, CSF Test
Lactate, CSF Test
Lactate measurement in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is used as part of an initial evaluation for someone suspected of having infections of the central nervous system and surrounding structures.
Lactate is a primary by-product of the body's anaerobic (without oxygen) energy production process. While its levels are normally low in the CSF, a range of diseases, infections, and inherited metabolic and mitochondrial disorders can increase CSF lactate concentration. Sometimes, elevation may also be caused by certain medications, such as metformin (taken by people with diabetes) and isoniazid (tuberculosis treatment).
What is the Lactate CSF Test Used For?
Your doctor may request for a Lactate CSF test
To diagnose diseases and conditions affecting the CNS in individuals having neurological symptoms
To differentiate bacterial and viral meningitis
To monitor the progression of neurological diseases and see if treatment is working
Symptoms of Meningitis
The most common symptoms of meningitis include the following
High fever with cold hands and feet
Stiff neck
Sensitivity to light
Headaches
Altered mental status
Seizures
Preparation for Test
Your doctor will do a spinal tap or lumbar puncture to withdraw some cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) for testing. Before the procedure, they will answer any questions you may have. Please inform them if you are on medication, have any allergies, or are pregnant. Also, try to increase the fluid intake (such as water and juice) for the two days leading up to your procedure.
Interpretation of Test Result
Millimoles per Liter (mmol/L) is the scientific unit used to measure lactate levels in the CSF. While the normal range of lactate CSF may vary slightly between different labs, the acceptable reference range with interpretations is provided in the table below:
|
Lactate Level in CSF |
Interpretation |
|
1.1 – 2.4 mmol/L. |
Normal |
|
More than 2.4mmol/L |
Indicate bacterial meningitis, cerebral anorexia, or intracranial hemorrhage |
For diagnostic purposes, the CSF lactate results are always assessed in light of the clinical examination and concert with conventional parameters (glucose, protein, cell count, Gram stain, and culture).
FAQs
How does lactate affect the brain?
L-lactate, an ionic form of lactic acid, uses several pathways to affect brain functions like learning and memory, cerebral blood flow, formation of new brain cells, energy metabolism, neuronal activity, and neuroprotection.
What causes elevated CSF lactate?
Elevated levels of CSF lactate may occur in the following conditions:
- Severe cerebral hypoxia (lack of oxygen)
- Genetic lactic acidosis,
- Intracranial hemorrhage (bleeding in the brain)
- Bacterial meningitis
- Epilepsy
What factors can affect the results of these tests?
The levels of CSF lactate can be affected by the patient's age, body temperature, intake of certain medications, and the lumbar puncture procedure itself.
Is this test painful?
While the lactate test itself isn't painful, the lumbar puncture procedure to collect the CSF sample may cause discomfort in the lower back. The site may feel sore for a few days after the procedure.
What precautions should I take after the test?
Once the sampling is done, make sure to get ample rest. Also, avoid indulging in strenuous activities to prevent headaches or discomfort.
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