Welcome to the Exeter Clinical Laboratory International website
NHS logo

CSF – Viral PCR

Microbiology


Summary

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

  • HSV (Herpes simplex Virus) 1 & 2
  • VZV (Varicella Zoster Virus)
  • Enterovirus
  • Parechovirus

Usage

Diagnosis of Viral Encephalitis / Meningitis

Specimen

CSF

Specimen container

White top universal

Special Instructions

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

Availability

Locally at RD&E

Turnaround Time

2 days

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

Useful Links

Patients:

CSF Analysis – Lab Tests Online

Meningitis and Encephalitis – Lab Tests Online

Meningitis – NHS

Encephalitis – NHS

Specimen Labelling Procedure
University of Exeter logo
UKAS Medical logo

9018

Royal Devon University Healthcare logo