DefinitionA cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) culture is a laboratory test to look for bacteria, fungi, and viruses in the clear fluid that moves in the space surrounding the spinal cord.Alternative NamesCulture - CSF; Spinal fluid culture; CSF cultureHow the test is performedA sample of CSF is needed. This is usually done with a lumbar puncture. For information on how this procedure is performed, see spinal tap.The sample is sent to the laboratory, where it is placed in a special dish (called a culture medium). The laboratory personnel watch to see if bacteria, fungi, or viruses grow in the dish. Growth means there is an infection.How to prepare for the testFor information on how to prepare for the procedure to obtain the CSF sample, see spinal tap.How the test will feelFor information on how it