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HelpTest Code MEPCR Meningitis/Encephalitis PCR
Specimen Requirements
Container/Tube: Sterile vial(s)
Specimen Volume: 8 mL of spinal fluid (from third tube collected in a series of three), Do not centrifuge before testing
Collection Instructions:
Note: 1. Label vial with patient’s name (first and last), medical record number, and date and actual time of collection.
2. Specimen source is required.
Specimen Transport Temperature
RoomTemperature
Transport ASAP
Hand deliver to Hematology
Performing Laboratory
The Valley Hospital
Rapid detection of meningitis and encephalitis caused by:
-Escherichia coli K1 (K1 serotype only)
-Haemophilus influenzae
-Listeria monocytogenes
-Neisseria meningitidis (encapsulated strains only)
-Streptococcus agalactiae (Group B Strep)
-Streptococcus pneumoniae
-Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
-Enterovirus
-Herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1)
-Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2)
-Herpes simplex virus 6 (HHV-6)
-Human parechovirus
-Varicella zoster virus (VZV)
-Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii
This test is not intended for use with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected from indwelling medical devices (eg, CSF shunts).
This test is not recommended as a test of cure.