Unit Code 110260:
Bacterial Antigen Test, Spinal Fluid
Useful For
Rapid screening for meningitis due to Haemophilus influenzae
type B, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis,
Escherichia coli, or streptococcus group B.
The test should not be used to diagnose meningitis; culture is
necessary.
Clinical Information
Meningitis has a wide variety of potential causes, both infectious
and noninfectious. Diagnosis depends on clinical findings and
culture. If bacterial meningitis is not treated promptly and effectively,
the disease is likely to be fatal. Accordingly, early identification of
the infecting agent can be of considerable value in providing the
patient with appropriate treatment. Latex agglutination tests have
been developed to rapidly identify bacterial antigens.
Reference Values
Negative
If positive, the specific bacterial antigen is identified.
Interpretation
A positive result suggests the presence of bacterial antigens in
the cerebrospinal fluid. However, examples have been reported
of unrelated bacteria which possess common antigens. As with
any immunological test, the possibility of false positives due to
cross reactions cannot be ruled out.
A negative result suggests the absence of bacterial antigens.
However, it does not eliminate the possibility of an infection
caused by this organism. If symptoms are present, cultures are
indicated.
Cautions
Tests performed directly on clinical specimens are intended for
screening purposes and do not replace the need for culture.
False-positive and false-negative results may occur.
Clinical Reference
Tunkel AR, Scheld WM: Pathogenesis and pathophysiology of
bacterial meningitis. Clin Microbiol Rev 1993; 6:118-136
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