Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
CSF lactate is useful in the investigation of neurological disease. CSF lactate is increased in bacterial meningitis and in conditions associated with reduced oxygenation of the brain and/or increased intracranial pressure.
Specimen container paediatric:
Fluoride oxalate tube
Specimen container adult:
Fluoride oxalate tube
Minimum volume paediatric:
0.5 mL
Minimum volume adult:
0.5 mL
Sample stability:
Day of collection at 15 to 25°C and 2 to 8°C, >1 month at -20°C
Transport requirements:
Send the sample to the laboratory as soon as possible
Reference ranges :
Neonate: 1.1 – 6.7 mmol/L
3-10 days old: 1.1 – 4.4 mmol/L
> 10 days old: 1.1 – 2.8 mmol/L
Adult: 1.1 – 2.4 mmol/L