Section 6.3
Cerebrospinal, Serous, and Synovial Fluids

A Gram stain is performed on the CSF prior to concentration The Gram stain is positive in fewer than 40% of cases of acute bacterial meningitis India ink and acid fast stains are indicated if neutrophilic pleocytosis is present All CSF specimens should be cultured using sheep blood agar, chocolate agar, and supplemented broth