Lumbar Puncture Medical Test

A lumbar puncture is a test to check the fluid that circulates round the brain and spinal cord. Lumbar punctures may also be done to inject medications into the cerebrospinal fluid, particularly for spinal anesthesia or chemotherapy. During a lumbar puncture, a needle is inserted into the spinal canal. Samples of cerebrospinal fluid are collected and later analyzed for color, blood cell counts, protein, glucose, and other substances. On rare occasions, a lumbar puncture may be used to decrease pressure in the brain caused by an excess of cerebrospinal fluid. A lumbar puncture requires aseptic technique and performance by qualified and skilled medical practitioners. When spinal fluid is removed during an LP, the risks include headache, brain herniation, bleeding, and infection. Lumbar puncture is performed by inserting a hollow needle into the lower part of the spinal canal to draw out a sample of the cerebrospinal fluid. A lumbar puncture can be carried out on people of any age, although very young children may have some sedation medicine beforehand to keep them calm.

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