Mycobacterium Complex - PCR (CSF)

In tuberculous (Mycobacterium tuberculosis) meningitis, CSF typically shows elevated opening pressure, lymphocytic-predominant pleocytosis (may be neutrophil-predominant early), markedly increased protein, and low glucose with a reduced CSF:blood glucose ratio. CSF chloride may be low. AFB smear is often negative; culture or PCR increases diagnostic yield but sensitivity is limited. Adenosine deaminase may be elevated.

A CSF PCR test uses polymerase chain reaction on cerebrospinal fluid obtained by lumbar puncture to detect genetic material (DNA or RNA) of infectious organisms causing meningitis or encephalitis. It’s rapid and sensitive for viruses, some bacteria and fungi, helps confirm diagnosis when culture is slow or negative, and guides targeted treatment and infection-control decisions.

A positive MTB PCR means Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA was detected in the specimen, indicating the presence of TB bacteria. It strongly suggests active tuberculosis but must be interpreted with clinical signs, imaging and culture because PCR can detect nonviable organisms. Follow-up includes culture and drug‑susceptibility testing (some PCRs report rifampicin resistance); clinicians decide on treatment and public‑health measures.

Mycobacterium PCR is a molecular test that amplifies and detects DNA from mycobacteria (e.g., Mycobacterium tuberculosis and non‑tuberculous mycobacteria) in sputum, tissue, or fluids. It provides rapid, sensitive identification—often within hours—helping diagnose infection faster than culture and can identify species and some resistance mutations. Results guide early treatment while culture and drug‑susceptibility tests confirm and refine therapy.

A CSF test for TB involves collecting cerebrospinal fluid by lumbar puncture to diagnose tuberculous meningitis. Labs assess cell counts (often lymphocytic), low glucose, high protein, acid-fast bacilli smear, mycobacterial culture, and PCR (e.g., GeneXpert) for Mycobacterium tuberculosis and resistance; ADA can support diagnosis. Results guide prompt anti-TB treatment. Risks include headache, bleeding, and infection.

Early signs of tuberculous meningitis are often gradual and nonspecific: persistent headache, low-grade fever, nausea, vomiting, neck stiffness and photophobia. Patients may develop behavioral changes, lethargy, confusion or irritability; infants show poor feeding and a bulging fontanelle. As it progresses, focal neurological deficits, cranial nerve palsies and seizures can appear. Prompt medical evaluation is essential.