The recommended storage conditions for CSF samples vary depending on the specific tests that need to be performed. For chemistry and serological tests, samples are often stored at frozen temperature (-20°C) to slow down biochemical reactions. For microbiological tests, samples are stored at room temperature (25°C) to maintain the viability of microorganisms as refrigeration could inhibit their growth. For hematology tests, samples are refrigerated (2°C to 8°C) within 4 hours to maintain the cells' morphology. Above all, these tests are performed on a STAT basis to preserve sample integrity.

References:

Strasinger, S. K., & Schaub, D. L. M. (2021). Urinalysis and body fluids. F.A. Davis Company.

It is not appropriate to get answers to your schoolwork questions from this forum.

Based on the textbook of Strasinger, storage guidelines for CSF varies depending on its use. It may be collected in 3 sterile tubes. The first tube is for hematology test which requires refrigerating. The second tube is for microbiology testing that is handled in room temperature. The reason behind this, refrigerating your samples may lead to degeneration of presence of bacteria altering the results that is why it is kept in room temperature. For the third tube, chemistry and serology, it is frozen.

Analysis of the CSF plays an important role in detecting and diagnosing health problems. According to the Textbook of Diagnostic Microbiology by Mahon, and Lehman, cerebrospinal fluid that is not processed immediately may be stored in a 35 degrees celcius incubator.

References:

Mahon, C. R., Lehman, D. C., & Manuselis, G. (2018). Textbook of diagnostic microbiology - e-book. Saunders.

Strasinger, S. K., & Schaub, D. L. M. (2021). Urinalysis and body fluids. F.A. Davis Company.

Refrigeration is not recommended for storing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples due to several reasons: Degradation: Refrigeration can lead to degradation or lysis of cells in the CSF, affecting their appearance and potentially interfering with diagnostic tests.

Chemical Changes: Refrigeration can alter the chemical composition of CSF, including protein and glucose levels, making test results difficult to interpret accurately.

Microbial Growth: Refrigeration may slow but not completely prevent microbial contamination, leading to false-positive results in infection tests.

Artifacts: Refrigeration can introduce abnormalities in CSF samples, complicating test interpretation and potentially causing misdiagnosis.

CSF samples are typically stored at room temperature and analyzed promptly to ensure accurate results.