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
Turn Around
3 days
Send to
LGI Microbiology Department
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