Three tubes of CSF containing visible blood are drawn from a

Three tubes of CSF containing visible blood are drawn from a 75 year old patient and delivered to the laboratory. Initial test results are:

WBC count: 250 ul                             Protein: 1500 mg/dl

Glucose: 90 mg/dl                               Gram Stain:  No organisms seen

Differential:

            Neutrophils: 68%

            Monocytes: 3%

            Lymphocytes: 28%

            Eosinophils: 1%

            Capillary structures

Are the elevated WBC count and protein of significance?

Solution

Yes, they are consistent with a cerebral hemorrhage.