The Evaluation of a Rapid Syndromic Multiplex Meningitis/Encephalitis RT-qPCR MX-17 Panel

Background/Objectives: Meningoencephalitis (ME) is a life-threatening infectious disease; therefore, prompt and accurate diagnosis is lifesaving. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as culture, have several limitations related to sensitivity and specificity. Emerging multiplex ME-PCR panels are a comprehensive and rapid tool in a single test. The Bio-Speedy Meningitis/Encephalitis RT-qPCR MX-17 panel (Bioeksen R&D Technologies Inc., Turkey) enables testing for 17 targets. To evaluate the performance of the panel compared to clinical and CSF parameters. Methods: A total of 403 patients with a preliminary diagnosis of ME were reviewed between January 2019 and September 2023. Following revision, 72 patients with clinical, CSF, and laboratory findings were included. The tested panel was used to detect targeted pathogens in CSF samples. The 30-day survival rate and prolonged stay were analyzed. Results: The median CSF protein value was 59.5 mg/dL (14.2-1471 mg/dL) and glucose was 61.95 mg/dL (0.083-165 mg/dL). Forty-one (56.9%) ME panel results were positive, among which 38.9% (28) were viral and 19.4% (14) were bacterial. HHV-6 ranked first with a rate of 15.3%. The Bio-Speedy panel test results outperformed the CSF culture (p < 0.001). The correlation of the Bio-Speedy panel with impaired consciousness was statistically significant (p = 0.004). Six (8.3%) patients from the study group died within 30 days. Conclusions: Compared to traditional methods, Bio-Speedy panel was effective in identifying the causative agents of ME. The Bio-Speedy ME RT-qPCR MX-17 panel offers accurate detection of ME-causing pathogens. The implementation of the panel in clinical practice can impact patient management and improve outcomes.