What is pleocytosis in csf?

Pleocytosis in CSF refers to an abnormal increase in the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the central nervous system (CNS). Normal CSF contains a small number of WBCs, but when the number increases beyond the normal range, it indicates an inflammatory response due to various infectious and non-infectious causes.

The most common causes of pleocytosis in CSF are infections such as meningitis, encephalitis, and brain abscess. Other non-infectious causes include autoimmune disorders, cancer, and traumatic injury. The degree of pleocytosis in CSF can vary depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition.

The diagnosis of pleocytosis in CSF involves a lumbar puncture (spinal tap) to collect a sample of CSF for laboratory analysis. The laboratory will measure the number of cells in the CSF and can also perform additional tests to determine the specific cause of the pleocytosis.

Treatment depends on the underlying cause of pleocytosis in CSF. Infectious causes usually require antibiotics or antiviral medication, while non-infectious causes may be treated with immunosuppressive drugs or chemotherapy. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent complications and improve outcomes.