Reasons for Spinal Tap
When your doctor informs you that you need the Spinal Tap procedure performed it can be scary. Learn exactly what the procedure involves, the reasons it needs to be performed and what the next steps could be.
Alternate Names for Spinal Tap:
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis
Cerebrospinal fluid tap
CSF analysis
CSF tap
Lumbar puncture
Puncture, lumbar
Learn
- Overview
- What It Is
- Reasons For
- Complications
- What to Expect
- Results
- When to Call a Doctor
Why Spinal Tap is Performed
Alternate Names for Spinal Tap:
Cerebrospinal fluid analysis
Cerebrospinal fluid tap
CSF analysis
CSF tap
Lumbar puncture
Puncture, lumbar
Reasons for Procedure
A lumbar puncture may be done when the following conditions are suspected:
- Brain infection, or infection of the layers around the brain
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Any disorder affecting the nervous system
- Certain types of cancer
- Bleeding in the brain or spinal cord
- Excess CSF in the brain
The procedure may also be done to:
- Administer dye for imaging studies
- Drain CSF to lower pressure within the brain
- Administer medicines (eg, chemotherapy , antibiotics, anesthesia )
Learn
 What to Expect Find out how long it will take, what they will be doing and what to expect afterwards. |
 Results What are the next steps and other possible tests needed after you have received the results. |
Latest Articles
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor
implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A
MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment
or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright ©2013 EBSCO Publishing All rights
reserved. Source: EBSCO
