During a lumbar puncture, a needle is inserted into the spinal canal. Samples of CSF are collected and later analyzed for color, blood cell counts, protein, glucose, and other substances. A portion of the sample may be cultured to promote the growth of infectious organisms, such as bacteria or fungi, to check for infection of the CSF. The pressure of the CSF also is measured during the test.

For those of you following the Jollarian health sage: OW MY FUCKING SPINE AND HEAD. I hadda get some super migraine pills called in tonight. Thank god for tylenol/caffiene/barbiturate combos. Nothing ever hit the spot like those bastards.