[Present condition and prospects of cerebrospinal fluid diagnostics]

Despite a significant reduction in the frequency of lumbar taps done for CSF examination this method is still an important diagnostic tool. In recent years important advances have been made in the studies of the cytology and biochemistry of CSF. The introduction of new simple methods of centrifugation has increased the index of cell recovery with better possibilities of differentiation of these cells. In the biochemistry of proteins in which the analysis of immunoglobulins, albumins and other proteins, such as 14-3-3 protein, S-100, tau protein, enzymes, such as neuron-specific enolase or matrix-metalproteinase, alkaline myelin protein, beta-2-microglobulin, various cytokines, has been introduced, it is becoming a routine analysis in many CSF laboratories. The role of determination of many antibodies is increasing. Particular advances have been achieved in genetic studies, and, similarly as in other medical disciplines, explanation is expected of many not yet sufficiently clear pathological mechanisms.