Lumbar Puncture

Lumbar puncture (LP) or Spinal Tap, is a diagnostic procedure that can assist doctors in diagnosing neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s Disease.

 

Memory & Aging Study Visit

About Lumbar Punctures/ Spinal Taps

The purpose of the lumbar puncture, or spinal tap, is to check the fluids surrounding your brain and spinal cord. These fluids are called cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Your CSF will be checked for specific proteins associated with Alzheimer’s Disease.

Prepare For Your Visit

A few key things to remember before your lumbar puncture procedure

Food

Eat a light meal on the day of the procedure. Bring a snack to enjoy after the LP is over. At the clinic you will be offered a caffeinated drink (coke or diet coke). You should also drink a second caffeinated beverage after you leave.

Medications

Be sure to take your medications as prescribed unless instructed otherwise.  

Travel

If you are currently taking aspirin, anticoagulant medications or blood thinners, or anti-inflammatory medications – stop taking the medication 3 days before the procedure to reduce the risk of bleeding. Contact us if you have any questions.

Have a question or need to connect?

Please contact Rachel Dewees, Participant Concierge

Attention

Please tell the ADRC team if…

  • You are taking any blood thinning, anticoagulant medication, or anti-inflammatory medications.
    • Examples: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve), aspirin (81 mg or higher dose), warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven), clopidogrel (Plavix), ticagrelor (Brilinta). 
  • You are allergic to local anesthetics such as Lidocaine.
  • You are receiving antibiotic treatment or have a fever. There may be an infection that will require your LP to be rescheduled.
  • You have scoliosis or had surgery to the head or spine in the last 10 years.