What finding would suggest a significant bacterial infection in cerebrospinal fluid analysis?

The presence of neutrophils in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis strongly suggests a significant bacterial infection. Neutrophils, a type of white blood cell, are typically elevated in response to bacterial infections as they are a primary component of the immune response. When bacteria invade the central nervous system, neutrophils migrate to the site of infection, leading to increased levels in the CSF.

In contrast, a low white blood cell count does not indicate infection; it may point to other underlying conditions. High red blood cell counts could suggest a traumatic tap or hemorrhage rather than an infection. Normal glucose levels might be seen in viral infections or certain other conditions but are generally not associated with bacterial infections, where glucose levels are often reduced due to bacterial consumption. Therefore, the presence of neutrophils is a clear and significant indicator of bacterial infection in the CSF.