[How to do: The diagnostic lumbar puncture].

The diagnostic lumbar puncture is an important diagnostic tool in various neurological diseases, such as inflammatory processes of the central nervous system. Considering relevant contraindications and performed in a standardised manner, the lumbar puncture can be regarded as a safe procedure with few side effects. The additional diagnostic yield is also of relevance in numerous non-neurological conditions. © Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York.