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Assessing the impact of a positive Biofire® FilmArray® Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel result on clinical management
Shon Dahan Nassy1, Maya Azrad2, Said Abozaid3
1Azrieli Faculty of Medicine, Bar Ilan University, Safed, Israel.
Abstract:
A rapid and accurate diagnosis of meningitis/encephalitis (ME) is required for early and effective intervention or adjustment of empirical treatment. This study retrospectively analyzed 485 records of patients hospitalized at the Padeh Poriya Medical Center during 2016-2020, due to a suspicion of ME. Pathogen distribution in cerebrospinal fluid samples, as determined using the BioFire® FilmArray ME Panel (MEP), is presented, as well as comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics, clinical management and outcomes of MEP+ (105) vs MEP- (380) patients. Pathogen distribution correlated with that reported in the literature, with Enterovirus (62%) being the most common causative agent. MEP+ patients were significantly younger than MEP- patients. Antibiotics use prior to lumbar puncture was significantly higher among MEP+ patients. MEP+ was associated with more frequent antibiotic change, compared to MEP-. While MEP+ contributed to early treatment adjustment or cessation, it did not necessarily impact the length of stay or patient outcomes.
Insights
Rapid meningitis/encephalitis diagnosis using the BioFire® FilmArray ME Panel (MEP) aids early treatment adjustments. While MEP testing identified pathogens, it did not significantly alter patient outcomes or hospital stays.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Clinical Microbiology
- Neurology
Background:
- Meningitis/encephalitis (ME) requires prompt diagnosis for effective treatment.
- The BioFire® FilmArray ME Panel (MEP) offers rapid pathogen identification in cerebrospinal fluid.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze pathogen distribution in suspected ME cases.
- To compare clinical characteristics, management, and outcomes of patients tested with MEP.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 485 patient records (2016-2020).
- Utilized BioFire® FilmArray ME Panel (MEP) for cerebrospinal fluid analysis.
- Compared demographic, clinical, and management data between MEP-positive and MEP-negative groups.
Main Results:
- Enterovirus was the most common pathogen (62%).
- MEP-positive patients were younger and received antibiotics before lumbar puncture more frequently.
- MEP testing led to more frequent antibiotic regimen changes.
Conclusions:
- MEP facilitates timely adjustments in ME treatment strategies.
- Early pathogen detection via MEP did not significantly impact length of stay or patient outcomes.
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