Preparation procedure for cerebrospinal fluid that yields cytologic samples suitable for all types of staining, including immunologic and enzymatic methods.

A new method for the cytologic investigation of the cerebrospinal fluid is described. Preparation of the cells is done by successive centrifugation, resuspension of the cells in a protein-enriched medium and cytocentrifugation. The method provided both good cell yields and morphologic preservation. All stainings, including enzymecytochemical and immunocytochemical, could be performed on the specimens. The cell-free fluid from the first centrifugation is also available for use in other studies.