Figure 2: Cytospin smear of cerebrospinal fluid collected from the lumbosacral space in a 1-year-old intact male Keeshond with fever and spinal pain.

Compared to the smear from the atlanto-occipital tap, there are numerous red blood cells in the background. In addition, macrophages demonstrate phagocytic activity (arrows). Some of the pigmented globules were thought to be compatible with hemosiderin, supporting hemorrhage. A small lymphocyte is reactive, with bluer cytoplasm than normal (arrowhead) (modified Wright’s stain).