To detect an array of bacteria, viruses, and fungus in patients with signs and or symptoms of CNS infection. If ordering the Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel PCR, a routine CSF bacterial culture must also be ordered.
Performed
Performed in Virology. Daily first shift. Specimens received by 12:00 P.M. (noon) will be resulted the same day.
Methodology
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Reported
TAT 24 HOURS
Collect
Collect CSF in a sterile tube
Preferred Volume
1.0 ml of CSF in a sterile tube
Minimum Volume
0.5 ml of CSF in a sterile tube
Unacceptable Conditions
QNS and clotted specimens are not acceptable and will not be tested.
Storage/Transport Temperature
Room temperature. Send specimen to the lab ASAP for testing. If there is a delay being transported to the lab, refrigerate specimen at 2-8°C.
Stability (from collection to initiation)
Room temperature for up to 24 hours after collection. Refrigerated at 2-8°C for up to 7 days.
Additional Test Information
*NOTE, due to lack of sensitivity, this test does NOT include HSV, 1,2. If HSV is suspected please order Herpes Simplex Virus by PCR (PCHSV).
To detect an array of bacteria, viruses, and fungus in patients with signs and or symptoms of CNS infection. If ordering the Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel PCR, a routine CSF bacterial culture must also be ordered.
Performed
Performed in Virology. Daily first shift. Specimens received by 12:00 P.M. (noon) will be resulted the same day.
Methodology
Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR)
Reported
TAT 24 HOURS
Collection
Collect
Collect CSF in a sterile tube
Preferred Volume
1.0 ml of CSF in a sterile tube
Minimum Volume
0.5 ml of CSF in a sterile tube
Unacceptable Conditions
QNS and clotted specimens are not acceptable and will not be tested.
Storage/Transport Temperature
Room temperature. Send specimen to the lab ASAP for testing. If there is a delay being transported to the lab, refrigerate specimen at 2-8°C.
Stability (from collection to initiation)
Room temperature for up to 24 hours after collection. Refrigerated at 2-8°C for up to 7 days.
Additional Test Information
*NOTE, due to lack of sensitivity, this test does NOT include HSV, 1,2. If HSV is suspected please order Herpes Simplex Virus by PCR (PCHSV).
