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Published on: July 24, 2016
Potential clinical impact of the film array meningitis encephalitis panel in children with suspected central nervous
Kevin Messacar1, Garrett Breazeale2, Christine C Robinson2
1University of Colorado/Children's Hospital Colorado Department of Pediatrics, Section of Infectious Diseases, Aurora, CO, USA; University of Colorado/Children's Hospital Colorado Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hospital Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA.
Abstract:
The FilmArray Meningitis Encephalitis Panel, a multiplex PCR for testing of cerebrospinal fluid, was compared to conventional diagnostic methods in children with suspected central nervous system infections. The panel had comparable diagnostic yield (96% agreement) and improved time-to-diagnosis by 10.3 hours with potential for more judicious antimicrobial use, particularly acyclovir.
Insights
The FilmArray Meningitis Encephalitis Panel offers comparable diagnostic yield to traditional methods for central nervous system infections in children. This multiplex PCR test significantly reduces diagnosis time, enabling quicker treatment and potentially optimizing antimicrobial use.
Area of Science:
- Clinical microbiology
- Infectious diseases
- Pediatric neurology
Background:
- Central nervous system infections pose significant risks to children.
- Accurate and rapid diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
- Conventional diagnostic methods can be time-consuming.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the diagnostic performance of the FilmArray Meningitis Encephalitis Panel.
- To compare the panel's yield and speed against conventional methods.
- To assess the potential impact on antimicrobial stewardship.
Main Methods:
- Multiplex PCR assay (FilmArray Meningitis Encephalitis Panel) utilized.
- Cerebrospinal fluid samples from children with suspected CNS infections analyzed.
- Comparison with established conventional diagnostic techniques.
Main Results:
- The FilmArray panel demonstrated a 96% agreement with conventional methods, indicating comparable diagnostic yield.
- Time-to-diagnosis was improved by an average of 10.3 hours.
- Potential for more judicious use of antimicrobials, including acyclovir, was observed.
Conclusions:
- The FilmArray Meningitis Encephalitis Panel is a valuable tool for diagnosing CNS infections in children.
- The panel offers significant advantages in reducing diagnostic time.
- Implementation can support more targeted and efficient antimicrobial therapy.
