ME (Meningoencephalitis) Advantage Test
Short Name: ME Advantage Test
Also known as: Biofire ME Meningoencephalitis Panel, Meningitis PCR Test
ME (Meningoencephalitis) Advantage Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹24,336. Uses Film Array Multiplex PCR, Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) on Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) samples. Results in Results are typically available on the same day of sample collection.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal
Consultant Microbiologist · Reg: 27670
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The ME Advantage Test aims to detect pathogens causing meningitis and encephalitis early, enabling prompt treatment, reducing complications, and improving patient outcomes through accurate PCR-based analysis.
- Test Code
- 205
- Price
- ₹24,336
- Sample Type
- Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
- Result Time
- Results are typically available on the same day of sample collection.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Film Array Multiplex PCR, Loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP)
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications or medical conditions.
Method: Lumbar puncture
Laboratory Analysis
A lumbar puncture is performed by a healthcare professional to collect CSF under sterile conditions.
Report Delivery
The CSF sample is labeled, stored refrigerated, and transported to the lab promptly for testing.
Timeline: Results are typically available on the same day of sample collection.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The ME Advantage Test aims to detect pathogens causing meningitis and encephalitis early, enabling prompt treatment, reducing complications, and improving patient outcomes through accurate PCR-based analysis.
How to Prepare
- Collect CSF via lumbar puncture by trained personnel
- Use sterile screw-capped container
- Ship refrigerated at 2-8°C
- Do not freeze the sample
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early detection of meningitis-causing pathogens is critical for timely intervention and improved patient outcomes."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Insufficient sample volume (less than 0.5 mL)
- Contaminated or leaking container
- Improper storage conditions
- Sample frozen
Understanding Your Results
Positive for a pathogen
Indicates active infection; consult a doctor for targeted treatment.
Negative for all pathogens
No detected pathogens, but clinical correlation is needed to rule out infection.
If you experience symptoms like severe headache, fever, stiff neck, confusion, or seizures, or if test results are positive.
Limitations
- ⚠May not detect all pathogens
- ⚠False negatives possible in early infection stages
- ⚠Requires lumbar puncture procedure
- ⚠Results should be correlated with clinical symptoms
Risks & Considerations
- ●Lumbar puncture risks: headache, bleeding, infection, or nerve damage
- ●Rarely, allergic reaction to anesthesia
Interfering Factors
- ●Contaminated sample
- ●Improper sample storage
- ●Prior antibiotic use
- ●Insufficient sample volume
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | ME (Meningoencephalitis) Advantage Test | CSF Culture | Blood PCR | MRI Brain | Latex Agglutination Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | ME (Meningoencephalitis) Advantage Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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Reference Laboratory Services
We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.
Your Data Privacy
Your medical data is protected under Indian law.
✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.
✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.
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