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HelpTest Code MECSF Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel, CSF by PCR
Additional Codes
Epic EAP: LAB8412
Epic Description: MENINGITIS-ENCEPHALITIS PANEL, CSF
Synonym
ME Panel
Test information
Meningitis/Encephalitis (ME) PCR Panel will test for the most common bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens associated with the central nervous system infections. Testing is performed using Multiplex PCR. Test intended to be used in conjunction with standard of care culture for organism recovery and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Bacteria:
- Escherichia coli K1
- Haemophilus influenzae
- 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
Specimen Type
CSF
Specimen Required
| Collection Container | Preferred Volume | Minimum Volume | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preferred |
Sterile vial |
1.0 mL | 0.5 mL |
Instructions for Collection and Transport
Internal specimens transport to lab immediately at room temperature.
Remote locations: transport ASAP at room temperature on the same day of collection. Do not hold overnight.
Specimens from the New Orleans region can be refrigerated up to 7 days.
Aliquot Requirements
CSF
Optimum 1.0 mL
Minimum 0.5 mL
Performing Lab
Ochsner LSU Shreveport Microbiology Lab
Ochsner Jeff Hwy Microbiology Molecular Lab
Assay Frequency
Daily, 24 hours per day
OMC New Orleans - Stat orders TAT 2 Hours; All others within 24 hours