Neuroviruses Comprehensive Panel Qualitative PCR Test
Short Name: Neuroviral Panel PCR
Also known as: CNS Viral Panel PCR, Neurotropic Virus Panel, CSF Viral PCR Panel, Encephalitis PCR Panel, Neuroviral Detection Panel
Neuroviruses Comprehensive Panel Qualitative PCR Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹8,775. Uses Real-Time PCR, Qualitative PCR on Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) samples. Results in Sample collected by Thursday 11:00 AM – Report available by Saturday. Standard turnaround time is approximately 2–3 business days from sample receipt at the laboratory.. 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
This test is designed to qualitatively detect the following 11 neurotropic viruses in cerebrospinal fluid using Real-Time PCR technology: Adenovirus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Enteroviruses, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1/2), Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), Parechoviruses, Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), Human Herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7), Parvovirus B19, and Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV). Early detection of these pathogens aids in the differential diagnosis of viral encephalitis, meningitis, and other central nervous system infections, enabling clinicians to initiate targeted antiviral therapy promptly.
- Test Code
- 1312
- ICD Code
- A85.8, A87.9, B00.4, A86
- Price
- ₹8,775
- Sample Type
- Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF)
- Result Time
- Sample collected by Thursday 11:00 AM – Report available by Saturday. Standard turnaround time is approximately 2–3 business days from sample receipt at the laboratory.
- Fasting Required
- No
- Method
- Real-Time PCR, Qualitative PCR
Sample Collection
No special preparation or fasting is required. Inform your doctor about any current medications, especially antiviral drugs, as they may affect test results. Ensure informed consent is obtained for the lumbar puncture procedure.
Method: Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)
Laboratory Analysis
A lumbar puncture (spinal tap) will be performed by a trained medical professional. You will be asked to lie on your side in a curled position or sit leaning forward. A local anesthetic is applied to the lower back. A hollow needle is inserted between the vertebrae into the spinal canal to collect approximately 3 mL of cerebrospinal fluid. The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes.
Report Delivery
You may experience a mild headache, back soreness, or slight discomfort at the puncture site. Rest is recommended for several hours after the procedure. Stay well hydrated. Avoid strenuous physical activity for 24 hours. If you develop a severe headache, fever, or persistent neurological symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
Timeline: Sample collected by Thursday 11:00 AM – Report available by Saturday. Standard turnaround time is approximately 2–3 business days from sample receipt at the laboratory.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
This test is designed to qualitatively detect the following 11 neurotropic viruses in cerebrospinal fluid using Real-Time PCR technology: Adenovirus, Cytomegalovirus (CMV), Enteroviruses, Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Herpes Simplex Virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1/2), Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV), Parechoviruses, Human Herpesvirus 6 (HHV-6), Human Herpesvirus 7 (HHV-7), Parvovirus B19, and Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV). Early detection of these pathogens aids in the differential diagnosis of viral encephalitis, meningitis, and other central nervous system infections, enabling clinicians to initiate targeted antiviral therapy promptly.
How to Prepare
- CSF sample must be collected via lumbar puncture by a qualified medical professional
- Use a sterile, leak-proof, screw-capped container for sample collection
- Minimum volume required is 2 mL; preferred volume is 3 mL
- Ship sample refrigerated (2–8°C) or frozen to maintain sample integrity
- Label the container clearly with patient name, date of birth, sample date, and collection time
- Complete the test requisition form with relevant clinical history
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Kothari Ramesh Shantilal — MBBS, MD (Microbiology) · Reg. No. 27670
"As a neurologist, I frequently encounter patients presenting with acute-onset neurological symptoms such as fever, altered sensorium, seizures, and neck stiffness. In such clinical scenarios, identifying the viral etiology quickly is critical to guide antiviral therapy and patient management. The Neuroviruses Comprehensive Panel PCR test from cerebrospinal fluid provides a rapid, sensitive, and specific method to detect multiple neurotropic viruses simultaneously. This comprehensive approach eliminates the need for multiple individual tests, saving valuable time in acute care settings. Viral replication in the CNS tends to peak early and then decline to undetectable levels; therefore, timely sample collection is essential for optimal PCR sensitivity. I recommend this test for any patient with suspected viral encephalitis, meningitis, or unexplained neurological decline, particularly when initial CSF analysis suggests a viral origin. Early and accurate diagnosis significantly improves patient outcomes through targeted antiviral treatment."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Sample collected in a non-sterile or leaking container
- Sample volume less than 2 mL
- Contaminated, hemolyzed, or turbid CSF sample
- Improperly labeled or unlabeled sample
- Sample shipped at room temperature without cold chain maintenance
- Sample received beyond the acceptable stability window
Understanding Your Results
Not Detected (all targets)
None of the 11 targeted neurotropic viruses were detected in the CSF sample. This does not completely rule out a viral CNS infection, as viral shedding may have declined by the time of sample collection, or the causative agent may not be included in this panel. Clinical correlation and additional testing may be warranted.
Detected (any target)
One or more neurotropic viruses were detected in the CSF sample, indicating an active viral infection of the central nervous system. The clinical significance depends on the specific virus identified. For example, HSV-1/2 and VZV detection in CSF is generally considered clinically significant and warrants immediate antiviral therapy. Detection of HHV-6 or EBV may require additional clinical context. Consult your treating neurologist or infectious disease specialist for appropriate management.
Consult a doctor immediately if you experience symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, confusion, disorientation, seizures, sensitivity to light (photophobia), vomiting, weakness or paralysis in any body part, loss of consciousness, or any other signs suggestive of a central nervous system infection. Early diagnosis and treatment are critical for preventing serious neurological complications and improving patient outcomes.
Limitations
- ⚠This is a qualitative test; it detects presence or absence but does not quantify viral load
- ⚠A negative result does not completely rule out CNS viral infection
- ⚠May not detect all strains, variants, or subtypes of the targeted viruses
- ⚠PCR sensitivity depends on viral shedding levels in CSF at the time of sample collection
- ⚠Cannot distinguish between active infection and latent viral presence for certain herpesviruses
- ⚠Detection of certain viruses (e.g., HHV-6) may represent chromosomally integrated virus rather than active infection
Risks & Considerations
- ●Post-dural puncture headache (the most common complication, usually self-limiting)
- ●Localized pain, tenderness, or bruising at the lumbar puncture site
- ●Minor risk of infection at the needle insertion site
- ●Rare risk of bleeding (epidural or subdural hematoma)
- ●Very rare risk of nerve root irritation causing temporary numbness or tingling in the legs
- ●Extremely rare risk of cerebral herniation in patients with significantly raised intracranial pressure
Interfering Factors
- ●Prior antiviral therapy may reduce viral load below detectable limits
- ●Late-stage infection when viral replication in CSF has declined
- ●Bacterial co-infection may alter CSF composition and affect PCR performance
- ●Improper sample storage, handling, or delayed transport
- ●Presence of PCR inhibitors in the cerebrospinal fluid sample
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Neuroviruses Comprehensive Panel Qualitative PCR Test | CSF Routine Analysis | Single Virus PCR (e.g., HSV PCR alone) | CSF Culture |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Neuroviruses Comprehensive Panel Qualitative PCR Test |
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