SAH-LP FINDINGS
From NeuroRehab.wiki
SUMMARY
1. Non-clotting, bloody CSF that does not clear with subsequent tubes.
2. Xanthochromia: yellow or pink discoloration of CSF due to bilirubin/heme pigments released by breakdown of RBC. This is the most reliable means of differentiating SAH from a traumatic tap. Spectro-photometry is more accurate than visual inspection.
3. RBC count: should not drop significantly. Usually > 100,000 cells/mm3. Should not increase significantly (this would indicate a traumatic tap).
4. Protein: elevated due to blood breakdown products.
5. Glucose: may be normal or reduced as RBCs metabolize glucose with time.
