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Test Code MEPCR Meningitis/Encephalitis ME Panel

Specimen Type

Cerebral Spinal Fluid (CSF) specimens collected via lumbar puncture

Specimen Handling Instructions

Transport to Lab ASAP

Specimen is stable at Room Temp (15°C-25°C) up to 24 hrs.

Specimen Volume

Minimum of 200µl of CSF required

Test Information

The ME Panel is capable of simultaneous detection and identification of multiple bacterial, viral, and yeast nucleic acids directly from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) specimens obtained via lumbar puncture from ED/Admitted individuals with signs and/or symptoms of meningitis and/or encephalitis. The following organisms are identified using the ME Panel:

 

Bacteria:  Escherichia coli K1, Haemophilus influenza, Listeria monocytogenes, Neisseria meningitidis (encapsulated), Streptococcus agalactiae , Streptococcus pneumoniae

 

Viruses: Cytomegalovirus, Enterovirus, Herpes simplex virus 1, Herpes simplex virus 2, Human herpesvirus 6, Human parechovirus, Varicella zoster virus

 

Yeast: Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii

If suspicion of Cryptococcal meningitis exits please add the Cryptococcal Antigen (CRYAG) test to the order.

Stat Turn Around Time (from receipt in lab)

N/A

Routine Turn Around Time (from receipt in lab)

< 4 hours after receipt at RGH Microbiology.

Methodology

PCR - based multiplexed nucleic acid test

Performing Laboratory

Rochester General Hospital (RGH) Microbiology