What is one purpose of testing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)?

Testing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) serves several crucial purposes, with diagnosing infections or conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord being a primary function. When CSF is analyzed, healthcare professionals can detect the presence of pathogens, such as bacteria or viruses, which may indicate infections like meningitis or encephalitis. Additionally, abnormalities in the CSF can signal other medical conditions, including multiple sclerosis, subarachnoid hemorrhage, or various types of tumors.

This diagnostic capability is because CSF is a clear fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord, providing essential protective and nutritional functions, as well as waste removal. Its composition can change significantly in the presence of disease, making it a valuable diagnostic tool. In contrast, the other choices focus on other bodily systems or fluids; blood sugar levels, kidney function, and liver enzymes fall under metabolic and systemic assessments that do not directly involve CSF analysis.