Lactate CSF Test
Also known as: CSF Lactate Test, Lactate in Cerebrospinal Fluid Test, CSF Lactate Level Test
Lactate CSF Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹1,135. Uses Spectrophotometry on Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) samples. Results in Reports available daily via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The primary purpose of the Lactate CSF Test is to measure lactate concentration in cerebrospinal fluid to aid in diagnosing bacterial meningitis, encephalitis, and other neurological disorders. It helps differentiate bacterial from viral meningitis, assess cerebral metabolism in conditions like hypoxia or infarction, and monitor treatment response in infections or metabolic diseases.
- Test Code
- 1147
- Price
- ₹1,135
- Sample Type
- Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
- Result Time
- Reports available daily via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Spectrophotometry
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications or medical conditions.
Method: Lumbar puncture
Laboratory Analysis
Performed via lumbar puncture: a needle is inserted into the spinal canal to collect CSF. Local anesthesia is used to minimize discomfort.
Report Delivery
Rest for a few hours to prevent headache. Monitor for side effects like back pain or nausea. Hydrate well.
Timeline: Reports available daily via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The primary purpose of the Lactate CSF Test is to measure lactate concentration in cerebrospinal fluid to aid in diagnosing bacterial meningitis, encephalitis, and other neurological disorders. It helps differentiate bacterial from viral meningitis, assess cerebral metabolism in conditions like hypoxia or infarction, and monitor treatment response in infections or metabolic diseases.
How to Prepare
- Ensure sterile technique during lumbar puncture
- Collect at least 1 mL of CSF in a sterile container
- Label the sample with patient details and time of collection
- Transport to lab refrigerated or frozen as specified
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"As an infectious disease specialist, I often recommend the Lactate CSF Test to differentiate between bacterial and viral meningitis, as elevated CSF lactate levels are a strong indicator of bacterial infection, guiding targeted antibiotic therapy."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume (<0.5 mL)
- Contaminated or hemolyzed sample
- Incorrect container or improper labeling
- Sample stored beyond stability period
Understanding Your Results
Elevated (>2.2 mmol/L)
Suggests bacterial meningitis, cerebral infarction, intracranial hemorrhage, or metabolic disorders. May require antibiotics and further imaging.
Normal (1.0-2.2 mmol/L)
Less likely bacterial meningitis; consider viral infections or other neurological conditions. Additional tests may be needed.
Low (<1.0 mmol/L)
Uncommon; may indicate sample error or rare metabolic conditions. Repeat testing advised.
If you experience symptoms like severe headache, fever, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures, seek immediate medical attention. Consult your doctor if test results are abnormal or symptoms persist after treatment.
Limitations
- ⚠Not solely diagnostic; must be correlated with clinical symptoms and other tests like CSF culture
- ⚠May be elevated in non-infectious conditions such as cerebral infarction
- ⚠False positives possible with improper sample handling
Risks & Considerations
- ●Post-lumbar puncture headache
- ●Back pain or soreness at insertion site
- ●Rare risk of infection or bleeding
- ●Possible nerve irritation (very rare)
Interfering Factors
- ●Sample contamination during collection
- ●Hemolysis in CSF sample
- ●Delayed processing or improper storage
- ●Recent intracranial surgery or trauma affecting CSF composition
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Lactate CSF Test | CSF Glucose Test | CSF Protein Test |
|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Lactate CSF Test | Measures glucose levels in CSF; low levels may indicate bacterial meningitis, while lactate elevation is more specific for bacterial infection. | Assesses protein content; elevated in infections and inflammation, but lactate provides better differentiation for bacterial vs. viral causes. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Lactate CSF Test?
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What is the cost of the Lactate CSF Test in India?
Is fasting required before the test?
What are the symptoms that might indicate a need for this test?
How long does it take to get the results?
Are there any risks associated with the test?
What do elevated CSF lactate levels mean?
Can the test differentiate between bacterial and viral meningitis?
Is home sample collection available for this test?
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Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
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✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
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