Meningitis/Encephalitis Pathogen Panel, PCR, Spinal Fluid

Casandra

Casandra Test Code MC68489Version 1 (DRAFT)

Performing Lab

Lab Mayo Clinic LabLab Test ID CSFMECPT Code 87483

Meningitis/Encephalitis Pathogen Panel, PCR, Spinal Fluid

Clinical Use

Use

This test is crucial for the rapid detection of meningitis and encephalitis caused by bacterial, viral, and yeast pathogens. It is designed to qualitatively detect the nucleic acid of 14 common pathogens that cause these conditions. The panel allows for early diagnosis which can significantly affect patient management and outcomes. It's particularly useful for patients suspected of having meningitis or encephalitis, as it targets a wide range of pathogens including _Escherichia coli_ K1, _Haemophilus influenzae_, _Listeria monocytogenes_, and others, enabling swift intervention.

Special Instructions

Specimen must arrive at refrigerated temperature within 7 days of collection. The panel should not be used on CSF collected from indwelling medical devices. It is recommended that additional testing such as cell count and differential, protein, glucose, and bacterial cultures be considered alongside this test, depending on the clinical context. Familiarity with local public health requirements is advised as it might require further testing for positive results.

Limitations

This panel is not intended for use as a test of cure and should not be used with CSF collected from indwelling devices. The presence of highly elevated protein levels in samples may interfere with the test. False negatives could occur if the concentration of nucleic acids is below the detection limit or due to strain variability. Further investigation with alternative testing methods is recommended when clinical suspicion is high but test results are negative. Repeat testing should not be performed within seven days of the initial test.

Test Details

New York Approved

Methodology

PCR-based (Multiplex PCR)

Biomarkers

Targets summarized.

Cryptococcus neoformans/gattiiCytomegalovirusEnterovirusEscherichia coli K1Haemophilus influenzaeHerpes simplex virus 1Herpes simplex virus 2Human herpesvirus 6+6 more