Test Code MEPCR Meningitis/Encephalitis PCR, CSF
Additional Codes
LAB 2331
Reference Values
Normal Result: Not Detected or Negative
Abnormal Result: Detected or Positive
Methodology
Multiplexed Nucleic Acid Test using Filmarray Instrument.
Includes detection of:
Eschericia coli K1
Listeria monocytogenes
Neisseria meningitides
Streptococcus agalactiae
Streptococcus pneumoniae
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Enterovirus
Herpes simplex virus 1 & 2 (HSV 1 & 2)
Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6)
Human parechovirus
Varicella zoster virus (VZV)
Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: CSF
Container/Tube: Sterile Tube
Specimen Volume: 200 uL
Specimen Transport/Temperature
Refrigerated: 7 days
Ambient: 24 hours
Test Classification and CPT Coding
87798 x 8
Eschericia coli K1
Listeria monocytogenes
Neisseria meningitides
Streptococcus agalactiae
Streptococcus pneumonia
Cryptococcus neoformans/gattii
Human parechovirus
Varicella zoster virus (VZV)
87653
Streptococcus agalactiae
87532
Human herpes virus-6
87529 x 2
Herpes simplex virus 1 & 2
87498
Enterovirus
87496
Cytomegalovirus (CMV)
Days Set Up
Monday through Sunday 24/7
Clinical Utility
The FilmArray ME Panel is indicated as an aid in the diagnosis of specific agents of meningitis and/or encephalitis and results are meant to be used in conjunction with other clinical, epidemiological, and laboratory data. Results from the FilmArray ME Panel are not intended to be used as the sole basis for diagnosis, treatment, or other patient management decisions. Positive results do not rule out co-infection with organisms not included in the FilmArray ME Panel. The agent detected may not be the definite cause of the disease. Negative results do not preclude central nervous system (CNS) infection. Not all agents of CNS infection are detected by this test and sensitivity in clinical use may differ from that described in the package insert.
The FilmArray ME Panel is not intended for testing of specimens collected from indwelling CNS medical devices.
The FilmArray ME Panel testing is intended to be used in conjunction with standard of care culture for organism recovery, serotyping, and antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
NOTE: Bacterial cultures of CSF and MEPCR should always be evaluated together. If no BACT LAB897 is ordered with the MEPCR, one will be added by the laboratory.