St. Louis Encephalitis Antibody Panel, IgG and IgM, Spinal Fluid
Use
The St. Louis Encephalitis Antibody Panel, which detects IgG and IgM antibodies in spinal fluid, aids in the diagnosis of St. Louis encephalitis. This disease, transmitted by mosquitoes, predominantly affects individuals over 60 years causing severe clinical infections, characterized by neurologic symptoms including encephalitis, irritability, depression, and memory issues. Detection of organism-specific antibodies in CSF can suggest a CNS infection, contributing to clinical assessments alongside other laboratory and clinical data to diagnose CNS conditions.
Special Instructions
Not provided.
Limitations
The test faces limitations in distinguishing between antibodies originating within the CNS and those introduced during a lumbar puncture or due to blood-brain barrier compromise. Cross-reactivity with dengue fever virus occurs, which can mislead to a false-positive diagnosis. The specific virus responsible might only be confirmed through patient travel history or isolation of the virus. Additionally, results may not differentiate between active infection and post-infectious states, necessitating a comprehensive clinical context for accurate interpretation.
Methodology
Immunoassay (Immunofluorescence Assay)
Biomarkers
St. Louis Encephalitis Virus IgG
AntibodySt. Louis Encephalitis Virus IgM
Antibody
LOINC Codes
- 96254-8 - SLEV IgG+IgM Pnl CSF
- 21509-5 - SLEV IgG Titr CSF IF
- 21510-3 - SLEV IgM Titr CSF IF
Result Turnaround Time
1-4 days
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Cerebrospinal Fluid
Volume
0.7 mL
Minimum Volume
Not provided
Container
Sterile vial
Collection Instructions
Preferred vial number is 1, although any vial is acceptable.
Causes for Rejection
Gross hemolysis and lipemia are acceptable.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Refrigerated | 14 days |
| Frozen | 14 days |