Guidelines
Lumbar Puncture

Lumbar Puncture

If LP Is Clinically Safe

Perform LP - DO NOT wait for results before starting empiric therapy

Send CSF for bacterial gram stain and culture, cell count, protein, glucose, viral PCR and additional studies as indicated based on history and examination

Obtain blood glucose

If LP Is NOT Clinically Safe

Consider urgent CT or MRI

Draw blood culture if possible and start empiric therapy

Obtain CSF when safe to do so (ideally within 24-48 hrs)

Next Steps