TransFix^® - CSF Stabilisation

Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) can be stabilised and stored in TransFix^® / EDTA for up to 10 days allowing samples to be batched and transported safely. TransFix^® CSF storage tubes are available in packs of 10, 25 and 50.

Most CSF samples are paucicellular and contain a limited number of cells with a rapidly decreasing viability. Evaluation of immunophenotyping in the study of CSF samples highlighted the need to stabilise samples to allow them to be safely stored and transported.

Sandra Quijano (2009) Journal of Clinical Oncology, 27, 1462 - 1469 - demonstrated that TransFix/EDTA effectively stabilises CSF samples for up to 10 days. Interpretation of cytological findings may be difficult because of the paucity of cells in CSF and the morphological similarities between benign and malignant cells. The study showed that flow cytometry is more sensitive and specific analytical method than cytomorphological analysis for the examination of CSF samples.

Sample preparation for flow cytometry:

1. Place between 3ml and 5ml of CSF into a TransFix / EDTA CSF storage tube and mix by inversion 5-10 times.
2. Store at 2 - 8ºC for up to 10 days.
3. Allow samples to return to room temperature prior to flow cytometry and ensure that cells are resuspended by inverting the vial 30x.