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Polymerase Chain Reaction in the Diagnosis and Management of Central Nervous System Infections
Roberta L. DeBiasi, MD;
Kenneth L. Tyler, MD
Arch Neurol. 1999;56:1215-1219.
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| Since this article does not have an abstract, we have provided the first 150 words of the full text and any section headings. |
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INTRODUCTION
Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is a broadly applied laboratory test for the diagnosis of a wide variety of central nervous system (CNS) diseases, including genetic and autoimmune diseases, malignant neoplasms, and infections.1-2 With its ability to detect minute amounts of DNA or RNA contained in tissues or fluids, PCR has improved the rapidity and accuracy of diagnosis, enhanced understanding of pathogenesis, and helped identify infectious causes for diseases previously considered idiopathic. In addition, PCR can be performed on a variety of tissues preserved in different ways—even archival specimens can be used to provide important epidemiological information. By making quick and precise diagnoses, appropriate treatments can be instituted, and unnecessary or invasive investigations can be avoided.
METHODS
The power of PCR results from its ability to synthesize millions of copies of a specific gene segment in vitro, starting with one or only a few . . . [Full Text of this Article]
RELEVANCE TO THE PRACTICE OF NEUROLOGY
Diagnosis Practical Considerations
OTHER CLINICAL APPLICATIONS AND RELEVANCE TO THE STUDY OF NEUROSCIENCE
From the Departments of Pediatric Infectious Diseases (Dr DeBiasi), Neurology (Dr Tyler), Medicine (Dr Tyler), Microbiology (Dr Tyler), and Immunology (Dr Tyler), University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver, and the Denver Veterans Affairs Medical Center (Dr Tyler).
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