Beta - Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) Fluid Test Cost & Procedure

The presence of Beta-2 Transferrin in nasal or ear fluid wound drainage from head injuries or surgeries, tumours, or congenital malformations strongly suggests that CSF has leaked into these passageways or fluids, opening the door for a potentially fatal infection of the central nervous system.

Why is this examination suggested?

• The test just aids in distinguishing CSF from other watery discharges since CSF may leak out if the membranes protecting the brain and spine are torn due to trauma (such as a skull fracture) or surgery on the brain.
• Additionally, this results in a runny ear or nose discharge (rhinorrhea or otorrhoea).
• Additionally, the test involves detecting substances that are typically exclusively present in CSF, such as beta-2 transferrin.

Beta 2 Transferrin Test Preparation:

In contrast to other tests, this doesn't necessitate test preparation to o guarantee the calibre of the sample.

Beta 2 Transferrin Test Applications:

• High-resolution CT (HRCT) imaging is necessary to identify the area of the leak if the test results are positive.
• If the test results are negative but there is a strong suspicion, HRCT imaging is again required, followed by an MRI of the cistern.
• Last but not least, false positives are indicative of chronic liver illness or genetic glycoprotein metabolism errors.

Beta 2 Transferrin Test Procedure:

• Typically, 0.5 ccs of bodily fluid (nasal, otic, etc.) must be collected for this (0.2 ml minimum).
• A pipette, syringe, test tube, or micro-collection device can be used for direct collection; the needle must be taken out and a cap must be placed on the end of the syringe.
• Fluids from the patient are often the suitable samples, though occasionally gauze or cotton swabs that had been used to soak up fluid are also acceptable.
• Small amounts of sterile saline are used to elute the samples from the swabs and gauze.
• CSF samples that are submitted for syphilis testing and are to be discarded after that are positive CSF controls.