ME (Meningoencephalitis) Panel CSF Test
Short Name: ME Panel CSF Test
Also known as: ME Panel CSF Test, Meningoencephalitis Panel, BioFire ME Panel
ME (Meningoencephalitis) Panel CSF Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹27,000. Uses Film Array Multiplex PCR on CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid) samples. Results in Sample daily by 1 pm; report same day (within 3-5 working days as per lab schedule).. 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 purpose of the ME (Meningoencephalitis) Panel CSF Test is to rapidly detect and identify multiple bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid to diagnose meningoencephalitis, facilitating prompt medical intervention.
- Test Code
- 201
- Price
- ₹27,000
- Sample Type
- CSF (Cerebrospinal Fluid)
- Result Time
- Sample daily by 1 pm; report same day (within 3-5 working days as per lab schedule).
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Film Array Multiplex PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications or allergies.
Method: Lumbar Puncture
Laboratory Analysis
CSF sample is collected via lumbar puncture by a trained healthcare professional in a sterile environment.
Report Delivery
Monitor for any post-procedure symptoms like headache or back pain. Follow-up as advised by your physician.
Timeline: Sample daily by 1 pm; report same day (within 3-5 working days as per lab schedule).
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the ME (Meningoencephalitis) Panel CSF Test is to rapidly detect and identify multiple bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid to diagnose meningoencephalitis, facilitating prompt medical intervention.
How to Prepare
- Submit 1 mL (0.5 mL min.) of CSF in a sterile screw capped container.
- Ship the sample refrigerated; do not freeze.
- Ensure proper labeling with patient details.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"This test is crucial for rapid diagnosis of central nervous system infections, enabling timely targeted therapy to prevent severe complications."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample collected in improper container
- Insufficient volume (<0.5 mL)
- Hemolyzed or contaminated sample
- Sample not refrigerated as required
Understanding Your Results
Positive for one or more pathogens
Active infection detected; consult an infectious disease specialist for targeted treatment.
Negative for all pathogens
No infection detected by this panel; consider other causes or repeat testing if symptoms persist.
Inconclusive
Retesting may be necessary; correlate with clinical findings and other diagnostic tests.
Consult a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms like severe headache, fever, neck stiffness, seizures, or confusion, regardless of test results.
Limitations
- ⚠May not detect all rare or atypical pathogens
- ⚠Cannot determine antibiotic susceptibility directly
- ⚠False negatives possible in early stages of infection
- ⚠Not a substitute for clinical evaluation
Risks & Considerations
- ●Risk of infection at puncture site
- ●Post-lumbar puncture headache
- ●Rarely, bleeding or nerve damage
- ●Allergic reaction to anesthesia
Interfering Factors
- ●Contaminated CSF sample
- ●Hemolyzed or improperly stored sample
- ●Prior antibiotic treatment may affect bacterial detection
- ●Low volume of CSF collected
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | ME (Meningoencephalitis) Panel CSF Test | Traditional CSF Culture | Blood Culture | MRI Brain | PCR for Individual Pathogens |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | ME (Meningoencephalitis) Panel CSF Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ME Panel CSF Test?
How is the CSF sample collected?
What pathogens does the test detect?
Is fasting required before the test?
What is the cost of the ME Panel CSF Test?
How long does it take to get the results?
Is home sample collection available?
What are the symptoms of meningoencephalitis?
How accurate is the test?
Can children undergo this test?
What should I do if the test is positive?
Is the test covered by insurance?
Related Tests
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.
Book Your Test
Enter your details and we'll connect you within 15 minutes.