CSF Tap
We are fortunate to offer cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) taps, also known as cisternal punctures, here at the clinic. These procedures are performed by Dr Richard Lucy under general anaesthesia and, in experienced hands, a sample can be collected quickly and safely. Once obtained, the CSF sample must reach the laboratory within 30–45 minutes for accurate analysis.
Although CSF taps are not a common diagnostic test, they can be extremely valuable when investigating suspected encephalopathies or myelopathies. CSF analysis provides information such as cell counts, total protein concentration and cytology, all of which help identify inflammatory, infectious or immune‑mediated diseases of the central nervous system.
Conditions commonly diagnosed through CSF evaluation include granulomatous meningoencephalomyelitis (GME), steroid‑responsive meningitis, meningoencephalitis associated with FIP, toxoplasmosis, neosporosis and certain brain tumours. Additional testing can also be performed on CSF, including bacterial cultures, antibody titres for canine distemper, and PCR testing for Neospora, FIP or Toxoplasma.