Laboratory Methods for the Diagnosis of Meningitis

Laboratory Methods for the Diagnosis of Meningitis Caused by Neisseria meningitidis, Streptococcus pneumoniae, and Haemophilus influenzae.

Second edition (2011)

This manual summarizes laboratory techniques used in the isolation and identification and characterization of Neisseria meningitidis (the meningococcus), Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) and Haemophilus influenzae from the cerebrospinal fluid or blood of patients with clinical meningitis or bacteremia. The procedures described in this manual are not new; most have been used for many years. Even though they require an array of laboratory capabilities, these procedures were selected because of their utility, ease of performance, and ability to give reproducible results. The diversity of laboratory capabilities, the availability of materials and supplies, and their cost, were taken into account. In addition to these basic procedures, methods for subtyping and biotyping of these organisms are included for reference laboratories that have the facilities, the trained personnel, and the desire to perform them.

 

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