Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): lactate
Written and reviewed by Dr Ibrahim Imam, Consultant Neurologist. Last reviewed .
Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF): lactate. Collect sample in a fluoride bottle. Fully referenced neurology checklist.
CSF lactate analysis
- Collect sample in a fluoride bottle
- Use the least blood-stained CSF sample for analysis
- Analyse the sample within one hour: freeze otherwise
- Normal range is 1.2–2.1 mmol/L: it is up to 3mmol/L in neonates
- Levels depend on CNS glycolysis and not on blood lactate level
Causes of high CSF lactate
Locked: subscribe to see this section.
CSF lactate: differentiating value
Locked: subscribe to see this section.
