Clinical use
CSF Rhinorrhoea testing is used to determine whether a fluid leaking from the nose or mouth as a result of trauma is CSF arising from damage to the membranes covering the brain.
Background
Tau protein (beta-transferrin), a constituent of CSF, is not normally found in blood, nasal secretions or other bodily fluids. Consequently its presence or absence indicates the type of fluid involved, its source and an idea of the seriousness of the injury.
Patient preparation
None required
Specimen requirements
CSF Sample – Collected into a plain universal container
Turnaround time
3 weeks
Referred test
Referred test
Location
Neuroimmunology & CSF Laboratory (NICL)