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.
Container / Tube
CSF sample – white topped universal.
Collection Conditions
CSF sample in plain universal. A separate sample and request should be sent for testing.
Availability
N/A
Send to
Microbiology Department, Centre for Laboratory Medicine, St James’s University Hospital, Beckett Street, Leeds, LS9 7TF.
Turnaround Time
3 days.
Additional Information
Investigation of viral meningitis and encephalitis.
Multiplex PCR testing for viral targets.
ID
3673