The Common Cell Types of Cerebrospinal Fluid

Abstract

This chapter first briefly describes the subarachnoid space and ventricular system, including the surrounding structures, to introduce the anatomical background of lumbar and ventricular puncture. Thereafter, the typical cell types of CSF (lymphocytes and monocytes), including their activated forms, are presented cytologically. Normal brain elements like plexus epithelial and ependymal cells as well as arachnoidal cells that have ready access to CSF are also considered. The chapter ends in a cytologic and histologic presentation of accidental findings originating from structures in the path of the needle, i.e., chondrocytes, squamous epithelial cells, erythrocytes, and cells of the hemopoietic system.