CSF GRAM STAIN PLUS CULTURE | SENGKANG GENERAL HOSPITAL

Lab Section Category	Microbiology
Specimen Collection	Cerebrospinal fluid, Brain abscess, VP shunt
Storage/Transport	• Specimen should reach the Microbiology Laboratory within 2 hours of collection. • If delay in transportation cannot be avoided, please keep specimens at room temperature.
Methodology	Gram stain and Culture
Test Result	Gram stain “No organisms seen” or descriptive report of observations. Culture Negative: “No bacterial growth” Positive: Identification of probable pathogen(s)
Turnaround Time	Negative: 2 – 4 Days Positive: 3 – 5 Days* *Depending on the number and type of organism(s) isolated
Day(s) Test Set Up	Daily
Additional Information	Please do not share other test(s) with the same specimen.
Sample Rejection	Refer to General Specimen / Collection Guide

Last Updated - 30 May 2025