Amsterdam UMC researchers develop test that can detect bacterial meningitis rapidly

An Amsterdam test for rapidly detecting bacterial meningitis has proven to be highly effective. Researchers of the Amsterdam UMC developed the test. The academic hospital has been using the test for almost a year. The scientists reported their positive results in The Lancet Regional Health Europe.

A fast diagnosis is of great importance when it comes to these types of life-threatening infections. “In the past, it took too long before meningitis could be detected, which led to late starts regarding adequate treatment,” the Amsterdam UMC explained.

The test quickly measures the CRP protein in cerebrospinal fluid. The protein is a trustworthy indicator for meningitis, which is fatal for around one in six patients.

The cerebrospinal fluid that is needed for the test can be taken via a epidural injection. This is possible because the spinal cord and the brain are connected. The results of these tests come in as quickly as half an hour.

A significant benefit to the tests is that hospitals can use a device that is already used to measure CRP protein in the blood. This is often done to show other bacterial infections. Researcher and neurologist Matthijs Brouwer called it a “huge victory.”

The study found that all patients with bacterial meningitis had elevated CRP concentrations in their cerebrospinal fluid. Just one of the patients in the study had elevated CRP concentrations without having meningitis.

Additional research in Denmark also produced good results. The test is also reasonably affordable. It costs around 3 to 5 euros per test.