Karius Spectrum
Use
The Karius Spectrum test is a blood test utilizing plasma metagenomic sequencing of microbial cell-free DNA, designed to detect over 1,000 pathogens including fungi, bacteria, parasites, and DNA viruses associated with deep-seated and difficult-to-diagnose systemic infections. It is particularly beneficial for immunocompromised patients and aims to improve the diagnosis and management of life-threatening infections such as pneumonia, febrile neutropenia, invasive fungal infections, endocarditis, fever of unknown origin, and antimicrobial resistance. The test assists clinicians by providing rapid pathogen identification, potentially reducing the need for invasive diagnostic procedures.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
Karius Spectrum is validated only for blood specimens, though the test can detect infections even if localized elsewhere in the body (e.g., CSF, lung, or deep abscess). While prior antimicrobial therapy might not immediately affect test results, delayed testing could lead to reduced pathogen cfDNA abundance, complicating result interpretation. Detection of antimicrobial resistance includes only specific bacteria and resistance classes: Methicillin-resistant Staphylococci, Vancomycin-resistant Enterococci, Carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria, and ESBL-producing Gram-negative bacteria.
Methodology
NGS (Metagenomic sequencing of microbial cell-free DNA)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Plasma
Volume
5 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Plasma preparation tube
Collection Instructions
Single blood draw in a plasma preparation tube.
Storage Instructions
Ship at ambient temperature and ensure receipt within 4 days of draw.