CSF PCR

Testing Laboratory

Department

Microbiology

Delphic Registration Code (Alpha Code)

MPAN

Test Code (Numeric Code)

2455

Laboratory Handling

Test Adds Requirement

Residual CSF (if any) is available for 4 weeks if additional investigations are required.

Sample Stability

.

Synonyms

meningitis PCR, encephalitis PCR, HSV CSF PCR

Turnaround Time

12 hours

The first line CSF PCR panel is performed daily, 7am to 9pm

This test may be vetted by the laboratory. Please include relevant clinical information on the request form to ensure appropriate tests are approved. See the 'Clinical Information' section below for more information on the indications for testing.

Specimen Type

• CSF

Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• CSF sterile tubes (Routine Analysis)

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

0.4

Paediatric Specimen Requirements

Tube/Container Type:

Preferred

• CSF sterile tubes (Routine Analysis)

Minimum Sample Volume (ml)

0.4

Aliquot Instructions

Minimum Volume (ml)

0.4

Transport to Lab

Ambient (8 - 24 degrees Celsius)

Test Method

Biofire +/- R-Biopharm multiplex PCRs are used.
The targets routinely reported include: HSV1, HSV2, VZV, Enterovirus, S. pneumoniae, N. meningitidis and H. influenzae.
Parechovirus and S. agalactiae are also reported on neonatal CSF.

Limitations / Interference

HSV PCR may be negative early in HSV encephalitis. If the clinical syndrome and MRI findings are consistent with HSV encephalitis, consider a repeat LP 4-7 days after symptom onset.

Cryptococcal antigen is the preferred method for confirming cryptococcal meningitis.

The R-Biopharm panel is preferred if Listeria is considered likely.

Please contact one of the Clinical Microbiologists or the Microbiology Registrar (phone numbers available on Paanui - Phone List) if you would like to discuss further.

Contact Information