This test is ordered when a person has symptoms of a central nervous system (CNS) infection, such as meningitis or encephalitis, and there is a suspicion of a bacterial infection.
When this test is required
This test is ordered when a person has symptoms of a CNS infection, such as fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, and altered mental status, and there is a suspicion of a bacterial infection.
What the Test Detects
This test detects the presence of bacteria in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using a Gram staining method.
Preparation for the Test
No specific preparation is required for this test.
Sample Requirements
This test requires a sample of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) collected through a lumbar puncture.
Additional Notes
Early diagnosis and treatment of bacterial infections in the CNS are critical to achieving a good outcome. A positive result on the Gram stain test should be followed up with further testing to confirm the diagnosis and guide appropriate treatment. The Gram stain method is not always sensitive enough to detect low levels of bacteria in the CSF, so a negative result does not rule out the possibility of a bacterial infection.
