Typhoid DNA (By Real Time PCR) - CSF is a diagnostic test that identifies the presence of Salmonella typhi, the bacteria responsible for causing typhoid fever, in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). This test is particularly crucial in instances where typhoid fever is suspected to have spread to the nervous system, resulting in conditions such as meningitis or encephalitis.
The test employs a technique called Real Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR), which amplifies and detects specific genetic material from the Salmonella typhi bacteria. This technique is highly sensitive and specific, making it a valuable tool for diagnosing typhoid fever, even when the bacterial concentration in the CSF is low.
Test NameTyphoid DNA (By Real time PCR) – CSF
Sample TypeCSF
Preparations RequiredNo specific preparation or fasting required. However, do inform your healthcare provider if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions.
Report Time8 days
Why is this test performed?
The Typhoid DNA (By Real Time PCR) - CSF test is performed when a patient has symptoms of typhoid fever, especially when symptoms of neurological involvement like confusion, altered consciousness, or seizures are present. It helps in confirming the diagnosis of Salmonella typhi infection in the central nervous system.
How is the sample collected for this test?
The sample for this test is collected through a procedure called lumbar puncture or spinal tap. In this procedure, a needle is inserted into the lower part of the spinal column to collect a sample of cerebrospinal fluid. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and the sample is then sent to the lab for analysis.
Home Sample Collection Process
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Sample Collection by Phlebotomist
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Reporting of the sample at lab
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Frequently Asked Questions
While lumbar puncture is generally a safe procedure, it can occasionally cause side effects such as headache, infection, or bleeding. The risk of these complications is significantly reduced when the procedure is conducted by an experienced healthcare professional and the patient is well-prepared.
A positive test result indicates the presence of Salmonella typhi DNA in the cerebrospinal fluid, suggesting an active typhoid infection in the central nervous system. Your doctor will guide you on the next steps, which typically involve a course of antibiotics to clear the infection.
The Real Time PCR technique used in this test is highly sensitive and specific for detecting the presence of Salmonella typhi DNA, even at low concentrations. This makes it a highly reliable tool for diagnosing typhoid infection in the central nervous system. However, a negative result does not completely rule out the possibility of an infection, especially if symptoms persist.
The turn-around time for the test can vary between labs, but usually, results can be expected within 1 to 3 days.
If your test results are positive, it's important to follow your doctor's advice regarding treatment, which generally involves a course of antibiotics. It's crucial to complete the entire course of medication, even if symptoms improve, to fully clear the infection and prevent the development of drug-resistant bacteria.
Yes, the test may be repeated after treatment to ensure that the bacteria have been completely eradicated. However, your doctor will decide whether a follow-up test is necessary based on your symptoms and overall health.
This test is highly sensitive and specific for detecting Salmonella typhi DNA. However, a negative test does not completely rule out an infection. The bacteria may not be present in sufficient amounts in the CSF to be detected, or the sample may not have been collected during the active stage of infection. If symptoms persist despite a negative test, further testing may be required.
Typhoid fever can be prevented through vaccination and by practicing good hygiene, such as frequent hand washing, safe food preparation, and consumption, and drinking clean, safe water. It's particularly important to take these precautions when traveling to areas where typhoid fever is common.
The cost of the Typhoid DNA (By Real Time PCR) - CSF test can vary depending on the lab and location. You can check with the lab for the exact cost of the test.
Yes, there are other tests available like blood culture and Widal test which are used for diagnosing typhoid infection, but these tests may not be as sensitive or specific as the PCR test. The choice of test depends on your symptoms, health condition, and the doctor's clinical judgement.
No, this test cannot be taken at home. It requires a lumbar puncture, a medical procedure that should be performed by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting to ensure safety and accuracy.
In some cases, if not treated promptly, typhoid fever can cause serious complications, including inflammation and damage to the brain and nervous system. This is why it is crucial to diagnose and treat typhoid infection early.
Typhoid infection is typically treated with antibiotics that kill the Salmonella typhi bacteria. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required. It's essential to complete the full course of prescribed antibiotics, even if symptoms improve, to prevent the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of the bacteria.
If your symptoms persist after treatment, it's essential to consult with your doctor. You may need further testing or a different treatment approach.
Yes, vaccines are available for typhoid fever. They are recommended for individuals traveling to areas where typhoid fever is common. However, no vaccine is completely effective, and hygiene measures should also be followed to avoid infection.
Yes, reinfection is possible. Having typhoid fever once does not provide lifelong immunity, and you can get infected again if exposed to the bacteria.
Practicing good hygiene is crucial in preventing typhoid fever. This includes washing hands frequently, especially before eating or preparing food, drinking safe water, and avoiding raw fruits and vegetables that can't be peeled or washed thoroughly in areas where typhoid fever is common.
Typically, with effective treatment, symptoms of typhoid fever should improve within a few days. However, it's crucial to complete the full course of antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel better, to ensure the infection is fully cleared and prevent antibiotic resistance.
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