CSF – Viral PCR

Microbiology

Summary

Nucleic acid amplification assays (PCR) for the detection of the following in CSF:

HSV (Herpes simplex Virus) 1 & 2 DNA
VZV (Varicella Zoster Virus) DNA
Enterovirus RNA
Parechovirus RNA (in children <3 years of age)

Usage

Diagnosis of Viral Encephalitis / Meningitis

Specimen

CSF

Specimen container

White top universal

How To Request On EPIC

For electronic requesting using EPIC (RDUH ONLY):

Search for: ‘CSF MC&S‘ or test code ‘LAB212‘ – make sure to indicate that you would like the Microbiology Consultants to review the patient with regards to Viral PCR testing

Special Instructions

Please state which condition you suspect when sending request.
Please state if patient is immunocompromised as additional testing may be indicated

Availability

Processed locally in Microbiology at RDUH

Turnaround Time

2 days

All positives will be communicated to the requesting clinician as soon as possible after testing is complete.

Additional Information

Please note:

Where possible all samples positive for Enterovirus RNA will be referred to the Virus Reference Department (VRD), UKHSA Colindale, London for typing.
The laboratory is currently verifying additional viral, bacterial and fungal PCR targets which may be tested dependent on clinical presentation.