Meningitis Testing: Lumbar Puncture, Blood Culture & More

Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap)

Needle into spinal canal to collect CSF. CSF analyzed for bacteria, viruses, WBCs, protein, glucose.

Blood Culture

Incubates blood sample to detect bacteremia/fungemia.

Imaging

CT/MRI for brain swelling, abscess, hydrocephalus.

PCR

Amplifies pathogen DNA/RNA in CSF/blood for rapid identification.

Antigen Tests

Detect specific bacterial/viral antigens in CSF/blood.

Combined approach confirms meningitis etiology.