A stepwise management approach to an unexpected cause of a yellow CSF tap; A case report

ABSTRACT Chemical meningitis is a feared complication to the skin antiseptic solutions used in skin preparation during neuraxial blocks. We report a case of a yellow CSF tap with a suggested management protocol. MAIN POINTS Yellow CSF tap could indicate a possible CSF contamination with Povidone-iodine. A contaminated spinal needle can be a source of chemical meningitis. Use of disposable spinal trays for skin preparation should be encouraged to avoid the possibility of CSF contamination. A stepwise management protocol for contaminated spinal needle may help to decrease the incidence of chemical meningitis.