Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel by PCR

Casandra

Casandra Test Code AR06488Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab ARUP LaboratoriesLab Test ID 2013305CPT Code 87483

Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel by PCR

Also known as: MEFAP

Clinical Use

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Use

The Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel by PCR is utilized to rapidly detect a range of common viruses, bacteria, and fungi that are associated with meningitis and encephalitis. It is crucial for the quick diagnosis and management of these potentially life-threatening CNS infections but is not a substitute for CSF culture and other specific tests for bacterial and fungal detection, especially in high-risk patients. The panel also aids in identifying multiple pathogens in one test to inform targeted treatment strategies.

Special Instructions

The panel does not replace traditional culture methods for bacterial or fungal detection in CSF, nor does it differentiate between active and latent herpes virus infections. The test results should always be interpreted in the context of the patient's clinical presentation and other laboratory findings.

Limitations

The panel does not detect non-K1 serotypes of E. coli or non-encapsulated strains of Neisseria meningitidis. It is also unable to distinguish between active and latent herpes virus infections. The detection of an organism may not indicate its causative role in meningitis or encephalitis, and negative results do not exclude the presence of these conditions if clinical suspicion remains high.

Test Details

FDA Approved

New York Approved

Methodology

PCR-based (PCR)

Biomarkers

14 targets

Cryptococcus neoformans/gattiiCytomegalovirus (CMV)EnterovirusEscherichia coli K1Haemophilus influenzaeHerpes simplex virus 1Herpes simplex virus 2Human herpesvirus 6+6 more