The advent of PCR has made the diagnosis of viral meningitis easier. Viral culture is no longer necessary and PCR is a very sensitive and specific test. Patients with suspected viral meningitis (either based on clinical presentation or on CSF differential WCC count – which shows a predominantly lymphocytic pleocytosis) will be tested for HSV, VZV adenovirus and enteroviruses / Parechovirus by PCR. In the immunocompromised CMV, EBV, JC and HHV-6 are added if meningitis has to be ruled out. Meningococcus and Pneumococcal PCR can also be tested if indicated.
Tube
CSF sample – white topped universal.
ID
3673.
Additional Information
Investigation of viral meningitis and encephalitis.
Multiplex PCR testing for viral targets.
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF.
Collection Con
CSF sample in plain universal. A separate sample and request should be sent for testing.
IP Routine TAT
3 days.
GP Routine TAT
3 days.