Abstract
We reformulated a multiplex PCR algorithm for serotyping of pneumococcal meningitis directly on cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Compared to established methods on isolates, CSF-based PCR had at least 80% sensitivity and 100% specificity. In regional meningitis surveillance, CSF-based PCR increased the serotype information yield from 40% of cases (isolate testing) to 90%.
Publication types
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Comparative Study
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Evaluation Study
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Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
MeSH terms
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Africa
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Bacterial Typing Techniques / methods*
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Cerebrospinal Fluid / microbiology*
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Genotype
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Humans
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Meningitis, Pneumococcal / microbiology*
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Polymerase Chain Reaction / methods*
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Sensitivity and Specificity
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Serotyping / methods
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Streptococcus pneumoniae / classification*
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Streptococcus pneumoniae / genetics
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Streptococcus pneumoniae / isolation & purification