OVERVIEW
What is sugar (CSF) lab test?
The sugar test or glucose lab tests are indicated for measuring levels of glucose in CSF (cerebrospinal fluid). Glucose (blood sugar) serves as a primary and essential source of energy for body cells, and short-term energy source for nervous system & brain. CSF is clear fluid flowing in the space surrounding brain & spinal cord. Therefore, its level determination in body is essential.
What other sugar/glucose CSF lab tests are available?
Glucose CSF tests available include CSF gram stain, CSF culture (for checking bacteria or viruses), viral testing (checks for virus), CSF/plasma ratio (compare with blood plasma), CSF protein concentration (for brain or spinal cord disease), and CSF WBC count (for infections).
Why is sugar (CSF) lab test done?
The test is performed as:
• It screens & diagnose prediabetes (sugar levels too high but not high for diabetes) and diabetes
• It detects hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) & hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
• It helps detect infection & possible malignancy as low body fluid glucose acts as an indicator.
• It is done for diagnosing tumors, delirium, bacterial infections, central nervous system inflammation, & for other neurological conditions.
• Indicated in individuals showing symptoms of high or low glucose levels in CSF like severe headache, stiff neck, confusion, hallucinations, dementia, seizures, and flu-like symptoms.
• It helps in monitoring of blood glucose levels
• It helps evaluate whether the treatment given is effectively controlling diabetes