Sometimes cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) must be obtained for testing. The procedure to do this is commonly known as a spinal tap, but what is the correct medical term and abbreviation?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The correct medical term for a spinal tap is a lumbar puncture (LP), and this is the only option listed that corresponds with the description given. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and positron emission tomography (PET) are imaging tests and do not involve obtaining CSF. Craniotomy (CT) is a surgical procedure to remove a portion of the skull and would not be used to obtain CSF.

Sometimes Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Must Be Obtained for Testing