N. Meningitis Bacterial Load Test
Short Name: N. Meningitis Bacterial Load
Also known as: Meningococcal Bacterial Load Test, N. meningitidis PCR
N. Meningitis Bacterial Load Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹8,160. Uses Real-Time PCR on Blood, nasopharyngeal secretions, nasopharyngeal swabs, C.S.F., bronchial swabs, bronchial lavage samples. Results in Reports are available within 3 working days. For urgent cases, a preliminary report can be provided within 24 hours on request.. 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 this test is to detect the presence of Neisseria meningitidis DNA in clinical samples and quantify the bacterial load. It aids in the diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis and septicemia, helps in monitoring the response to antimicrobial therapy, and can be used for epidemiological surveillance. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment and preventing complications.
- Test Code
- 6208
- CPT Code
- 87798
- ICD Code
- A39.0
- Price
- ₹8,160
- Sample Type
- Blood, nasopharyngeal secretions, nasopharyngeal swabs, C.S.F., bronchial swabs, bronchial lavage
- Result Time
- Reports are available within 3 working days. For urgent cases, a preliminary report can be provided within 24 hours on request.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR
Sample Collection
No fasting required. Inform your physician about any antibiotics taken in the last 48 hours. A signed consent document is required.
Method: Venipuncture or swab
Laboratory Analysis
Sample collection is performed by trained phlebotomists. For CSF, a lumbar puncture is done by a physician. For swabs, a sterile swab is used.
Report Delivery
No special precautions. Resume normal activities. The sample is transported to the lab immediately.
Timeline: Reports are available within 3 working days. For urgent cases, a preliminary report can be provided within 24 hours on request.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of this test is to detect the presence of Neisseria meningitidis DNA in clinical samples and quantify the bacterial load. It aids in the diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis and septicemia, helps in monitoring the response to antimicrobial therapy, and can be used for epidemiological surveillance. Early and accurate diagnosis is crucial for initiating appropriate treatment and preventing complications.
How to Prepare
- Blood: Collect in EDTA tube, mix gently
- CSF: Collect in sterile container, transport at 2-8°C
- Swabs: Use sterile swab, place in transport medium
- Label the sample with patient ID and collection time
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"Early detection of N. meningitidis is critical to reduce mortality. This quantitative PCR test helps guide therapy and monitor response."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample received after 72 hours of collection
- Improper labeling
- Hemolyzed blood sample
- Insufficient volume
Understanding Your Results
Negative
No N. meningitidis DNA detected. Infection unlikely, but clinical correlation is advised.
Positive (low load)
Bacterial DNA detected at low levels. May indicate early infection or partially treated infection.
Positive (high load)
High bacterial load suggests active, severe infection. Immediate medical intervention required.
If you experience symptoms such as sudden high fever, severe headache, stiff neck, nausea, vomiting, sensitivity to light, confusion, or a rash that does not fade under pressure, seek emergency medical care immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical.
Limitations
- ⚠Test cannot differentiate between live and dead bacteria
- ⚠Negative result does not rule out infection if sample was collected after antibiotic initiation
- ⚠Quantification may be affected by sample type and quality
Risks & Considerations
- ●Risks are minimal. For blood draw: slight pain, bruising, or infection at the puncture site.
- ●For lumbar puncture: headache, back pain, or rarely bleeding or infection.
Interfering Factors
- ●Antibiotic therapy prior to sample collection may reduce bacterial load and cause false negatives
- ●Improper sample handling or storage can degrade DNA
- ●Contamination during collection may lead to false positives
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | N. Meningitis Bacterial Load Test | CSF Culture | Latex Agglutination | Gram Stain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | N. Meningitis Bacterial Load Test | Culture is the gold standard but takes 48-72 hours. PCR is faster and can detect bacteria even after antibiotics. | Detects bacterial antigens but has lower sensitivity than PCR. | Rapid but requires high bacterial load and expertise. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the N. Meningitis Bacterial Load Test?
What sample is required for this test?
Is fasting required before the test?
How long does it take to get results?
Can this test be done at home?
What is the method used for this test?
What does a positive result mean?
Can antibiotics affect the test result?
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