Test ID MSCSF Bacteria, Virus, Fungus, and Parasite Metagenomic Sequencing, Spinal Fluid
Specimen Required
Container/Tube: Sterile vial
Specimen Volume: 2 mL
Collection Instructions:
1. Masks should be worn by those collecting and processing specimens for this assay.
2. Handle all vials under sterile technique when open to the air.
3. A separate collection vial of CSF is preferred.
4. Submit specimen from collection vial 2, 3, or 4, as specimens from vial 1 are not acceptable.
5. Indicate on the label which vial is being submitted.
6. Do not centrifuge or heat inactivate.
Forms
If not ordering electronically, complete, print, and send a Microbiology Test Request (T244) with the specimen.
Useful For
Detecting and identifying pathogenic organisms including bacteria, fungi, DNA viruses, RNA viruses, and parasites in cerebrospinal fluid
This test is not recommended as a test of cure because nucleic acids may persist after successful treatment.
Reflex Tests
Test ID | Reporting Name | Available Separately | Always Performed |
---|---|---|---|
SPID2 | Specimen Identification by PCR | No, (Bill Only) | No |
Testing Algorithm
For more information see the Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel Algorithm.
Method Name
Metagenomic Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
Reporting Name
Metagenomic Sequencing, CSFSpecimen Type
CSFSpecimen Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Specimen Stability Information
Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
---|---|---|
CSF | Frozen (preferred) | 21 days |
Refrigerated | 7 days |
Reference Values
Negative.
No pathogenic DNA virus detected.
No pathogenic RNA virus detected.
No pathogenic parasite detected.
No pathogenic bacterium detected.
No pathogenic fungus detected.
Day(s) Performed
Monday through Friday
Report Available
7 to 14 daysPerforming Laboratory

Test Classification
This test was developed and its performance characteristics determined by Mayo Clinic in a manner consistent with CLIA requirements. It has not been cleared or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration.CPT Code Information
87801 Metagenomic Sequencing, CSF
87798 Specimen Identification by PCR (if appropriate)
LOINC Code Information
Test ID | Test Order Name | Order LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
MSCSF | Metagenomic Sequencing, CSF | 103566-6 |
Result ID | Test Result Name | Result LOINC Value |
---|---|---|
MSCSF | Metagenomic Sequencing, CSF | 103566-6 |