Implementation of the FilmArray ME panel in laboratory routine using a simple sample selection strategy for diagnosis of meningitis and encephalitis
Open accessPublished version of a preprint
Abstract
Background: Infectious meningitis is a serious disease and patient outcome relies on fast and reliable diagnostics. A syndromic panel testing approach like the FilmArray ME can accelerate diagnosis and therefore decrease the time to pathogen specific therapy. Yet, its clinical utility is controversial, mainly because of a remaining uncertainty in correct interpretation of results, limited data on its performance on clinical specimens and its relatively high costs. The aim of this study was to analyze clinical performance of the assay in a real life setting at a tertiary university hospital using a pragmatic and simple sample selection strategy to reduce the overall cost burden. Methods: Over a period of 18 months we received 4623 CSF samples (2338 hospitalizations, 1601 individuals). FilmArray ME analysis was restricted to CSF-samples with a high pretest probability of infectious meningitis, e.g. positive Gram-stain, samples in which leukocytes and/or bacteria were evident or urgent suspicion of infection was communicated by clinicians. N = 171 samples matched to our risk criteria and were subjected to FilmArray ME analysis. Those samples were also analyzed by reference methods: culture only ( n = 45), PCR only ( n = 20) or both methods ( n = 106). Results: 56/171 (32.75%) were FilmArray ME positive. Bacterial pathogens were detected in 30/56 (53.57%), viral pathogens were detected in 27/56 (48.21%) and yeast DNA was detected in 1/56 (1.79%) of positive samples. Double detection occurred in 2/56 samples. In 52/56 (92.86%) FilmArray ME positive samples, results could be confirmed by the reference assays (sensitivity = 96.30%, specificity =96.58%). Conclusion: The FilmArray ME assay is a fast and reliable diagnostic tool for the management of infectious meningitis and can easily be implemented in routine diagnostic workflows. However, correlation of test results and underlying clinical symptoms requires experienced users and the awareness of potentially false negative or false positive results. Moreover, considering the need for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, the use of molecular tests as a stand-alone diagnostic cannot be recommended.
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TL;DR
In a real-life 18-month implementation at a German university hospital, restricting FilmArray ME testing to 171/4623 CSF samples with high pretest probability yielded a 32.75% positivity rate and good concordance with reference methods (sensitivity 96.30%, specificity 96.58%). The authors conclude the assay is fast and reliable but requires experienced interpretation and cannot replace culture/antimicrobial susceptibility testing.
Key findings
- Among 171 selected CSF samples, 56/171 (32.75%) were FilmArray ME positive; bacterial pathogens were detected in 30/56 (53.57%), viral pathogens in 27/56 (48.21%), and yeast in 1/56 (1.79%); double detection occurred in 2/56 samples.
- 52/56 (92.86%) FilmArray ME positive results were confirmed by reference assays; sensitivity was 96.30%, specificity 96.58%, PPV 92.86%, and NPV 98.26%. Four FilmArray positives (S. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. agalactiae, HSV-1) were not confirmed, and two FilmArray negatives were positive by in-house PCR for S. pneumoniae and Parechovirus.
- S. pneumoniae was the most frequent bacterial pathogen (17/30); rapid detection also included N. meningitidis (n=5), H. influenzae (n=2), and L. monocytogenes (n=3). Ten samples had pathogens not included in the panel detected by culture or PCR (Bacillus sp., CoNS, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae; BK virus, Streptococcus spp.).
- The risk-assessment-driven selection strategy produced a higher positivity rate than comparator studies reporting under 15% (p < 0.0001) and a higher proportion of bacterial pathogens.
Methods
- Prospective real-life implementation from September 2015 through February 2017 at a German university hospital; 4623 CSF samples were received (2338 hospitalizations, 1601 individuals). FilmArray ME was restricted to 171 samples with high pretest probability: Gram-stain abnormality (leukocytes and/or bacteria) or urgent clinician suspicion of infection.
- FilmArray ME was performed per manufacturer instructions using 200 µl CSF. Reference methods were culture only (n=45), PCR only (n=20), or both (n=106); reference diagnostics included bacterial culture/Gram stain, laboratory-developed quantitative real-time PCRs, and SepsiTest-UMD for 16S/18S rRNA.
- Main analysis compared FilmArray ME results with reference assays to calculate positivity rates, pathogen composition, and performance metrics (sensitivity, specificity, PPV, NPV).
Limitations
- Stated: no sample randomization; the selection strategy may cause selection bias; selection was mainly based on Gram-stain abnormalities, which is not ideal for leukocyte detection; not all samples were tested by all comparator assays, so pathogens may have been overlooked; no clinical data were analyzed, so effects on patient outcome or antibiotic utilization remain unclear.
- Evident from the text: this was a single-center real-life implementation; comparator methods varied by sample; discordant results included possible false positives/negatives and unclear HHV-6 relevance; no clinical outcome data were available to assess management impact.
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Claims the paper makes
0 of 61 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged
- Findingown data
56/171 (32.75%) samples were FilmArray ME positive.
“56/171 (32.75%) were FilmArray ME positive.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
52/56 positive FilmArray ME results could be confirmed by the reference assays (sensitivity=96.30%, specificity=96.58%, PPV=92.86%).
“52/56 positive FilmArray ME results could be confirmed by the reference assays (sensitivity = 96.30%, specificity = 96.58%, PPV = 92.86%).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
For the three samples positive for bacterial pathogens E. coli, S. pneumoniae and S. agalactiae, primary culture showed no bacterial growth after incubation period.
“For the three samples positive for bacterial pathogens E.coli, S. pneumonia and S. agalactiae, primary culture showed no bacterial growth after incubation period.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
S. pneumoniae (17/30) was the most frequent bacterial pathogen detected by the FilmArray ME assay.
“S. pneumoniae (17/30) was the most frequent bacterial pathogen detected by the FilmArray ME assay.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Findingown data
In 10 samples, pathogens not found by the FilmArray ME panel were detected by culture (Bacillus sp., CoNS, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae) or PCR (BK virus, Streptococcus spp.).
“In 10 samples, pathogens not found by the FilmArray ME panel were detected by culture (Bacillus sp., CoNS, S. aureus, K. pneumoniae) or PCR (BK virus, Streptococcus spp.).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
- Findingown data
Conventional assays were unable to detect HHV-6 in the two samples where FilmArray detected HHV-6.
“Presence of VZV (1.4 × 104 copies/ml) and H. influenzae was confirmed by specific real-time PCRs, but conventional assays were unable to detect HHV-6, and these results were thus regarded as false-positive.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
In 10 of 30 specimens, N. meningitidis (n=5), H. influenzae (n=2), or L. monocytogenes (n=3) were rapidly detected.
“in 10/30 specimens rapid detection of N. meningitides (n = 5), H. influenzae (n = 2) or L. monocytogenes (n = 3)”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Findingown data
Two samples (1%) revealed negative FilmArray results, but were positive for S. pneumoniae and Parechovirus by specific in-house PCRs, respectively (NPV=98.26%).
“Two samples (1%) revealed negative FilmArray results, but were positive for S. pneumoniae and Parechovirus by specific in-house PCRs, respectively (NPV =98.26%).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingreasoning
Residual material of the two samples positive for E. coli K1 and S. agalactiae was not sufficient for additional 16S-rRNA amplification.
“Residual material of the two samples positive for E. coli K1 and S. agalactiae was not sufficient for additional 16S-rRNA amplification, as proper DNA extraction for this method requires a high input volume (e.g. 1000 μl of CNS liquid).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Cryptococcus neoformans was detected in 1/56 (1.79%) of FilmArray ME positive samples.
“Additionally, Cryptococcus neoformans was detected in 1/56 samples (1.79%).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
Overall positive results were observed in 56 of 171 (32%) selected CSF specimens.
“Overall we observed positive results in 56/171 (32%)”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Findingown data
Bacteria were the most abundant pathogens detected in this study, constituting 53.57% of positive samples.
“bacteria were the most abundant pathogens detected in our study (53.57% of positive samples)”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Findingown data
Good concordance was observed between FilmArray ME panel results and comparator assays, with 52 of 56 positive results confirmed.
“Analytically we observed good concordance (52/56 positive results could be confirmed) between the FilmArray ME panel results and our comparator assays.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
- Findingown data
171 samples matched the risk criteria and were subjected to FilmArray ME analysis.
“Overall, n = 171 samples matched to our risk criteria and were subjected to FilmArray ME analysis.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Findingown data
Viruses were detected in 48.21% of positive samples in this study.
“followed by viruses detected in 48.21% of positive samples”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Findingown data
In two samples, FilmArray ME yielded a discordant negative result compared to local reference methods: S. pneumoniae and Parechovirus were detected by specific in-house PCRs.
“Only in two of the samples the FilmArray ME panel yielded a discordant negative result compared to the local reference methods. Namely, in each of one sample S. pneumoniae and Parechovirus were detected by specific in-house PCRs.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
- Findingown data
Using the selection criteria, 171 of 4623 CSF specimens were selected for additional syndromic molecular testing.
“Using this selection criteria we selected 171/4623 CSF specimens for additional syndromic molecular testing.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Findingown data
One sample that was FilmArray positive for HSV-1 could not be confirmed by two independent molecular detection methods.
“One sample that was FilmArray positive for HSV-1 could not be confirmed by two independent molecular detection methods.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
In four samples that were positive for S. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. agalactiae or HSV-1 in FilmArray ME panel, the result could not be confirmed by a reference method.
“In four samples that were positive for S. pneumoniae, E. coli, S. agalactiae or HSV-1 in FilmArray ME panel, the result could not be confirmed by a reference method (Fig. 2, light grey bars).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim - Findingown data
One sample positive for S. agalactiae in FilmArray E panel showed no inhibition of growth in B. subtilis inhibition assay.
“One sample positive for S. agalactiae in FilmArray E panel showed no inhibition of growth in B. subtilis inhibition assay.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
- Findingown data
One sample remained disconcordant for HSV-1.
“In our study, one sample remained disconcordant for HSV-1.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
- Findingown data
In the three disconcordant samples, bacterial growth inhibitors (such as antibiotics) were found only in the two samples positive for E. coli and S. pneumoniae.
“In the three disconcordant samples, bacterial growth inhibitors (such as antibiotics) were found only in the two samples positive for E. coli and S. pneumoniae.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
- Premisecitation
In the multicenter evaluation study, reported detection rates for bacterial pathogens typically found in infectious meningitis cases were surprisingly low.
“However, in the multicenter evaluation study, reported detection rates for bacterial pathogens typically found in infectious meningitis cases were surprisingly low.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [6] Leber AL, et al. Multicenter evaluation of BioFire FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel for detection of Bacteria, viruses, and yeast in cerebrospinal fluid specimens. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(9):2251–61. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Premisecitation
Clinical data on the performance of the FilmArray ME reported by various users worldwide show diagnostic specificity and sensitivity in good concordance to the multicenter study.
“Meanwhile, clinical data on the performance of the FilmArray ME was reported by various users worldwide [7–13] with diagnostic specificity and sensitivity in good concordance to the multicenter study”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 7 sources checked- cites [7] Tarai B, Das P. FilmArray(R) meningitis/encephalitis (ME) panel, a rapid molecular platform for diagnosis of CNS infections in a tertiary care hospital in North India: one-and-half-year review. Neurol Sci. 2019;40(1):81–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [8] Nestor D, et al. Evaluation of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel with focus on bacteria and Cryptococcus spp. J Microbiol Methods. 2019;157:113–6. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [9] Launes C, et al. Utility of FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel during outbreak of brainstem encephalitis caused by Enterovirus in Catalonia in 2016. J Clin Microbiol. 2017;55(1):336–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [10] Graf EH, Farquharson MV, Cardenas AM. Comparative evaluation of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis molecular panel in a pediatric population. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 2017;87(1):92–4. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [11] Arora HS, et al. Enhanced identification of group B streptococcus and Escherichia Coli in young infants with meningitis using the Biofire Filmarray meningitis/encephalitis panel. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2017;36(7):685–7. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [12] Wootton SH, et al. Enhancing pathogen identification in patients with meningitis and a negative gram stain using the BioFire FilmArray((R)) meningitis/encephalitis panel. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob. 2016;15:26. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [13] Blaschke AJ, et al. Retrospective Evaluation of Infants Aged 1 to 60 Days with Residual Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Tested Using the FilmArray Meningitis/Encephalitis (ME) Panel. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(7):e00277–18. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
The proportion of bacterial pathogens in this study (53%) is higher than in other published studies that observed positive ranges for bacterial pathogens between 15 and 37%.
“we could increase the amount of bacterial pathogens to 53% of the specimens, again this is more than in other published studies that observed positive ranges for bacterial pathogens between 15 and 37% [6, 7, 32, 33].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 4 sources checked- cites [6] Leber AL, et al. Multicenter evaluation of BioFire FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel for detection of Bacteria, viruses, and yeast in cerebrospinal fluid specimens. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(9):2251–61. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [7] Tarai B, Das P. FilmArray(R) meningitis/encephalitis (ME) panel, a rapid molecular platform for diagnosis of CNS infections in a tertiary care hospital in North India: one-and-half-year review. Neurol Sci. 2019;40(1):81–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [32] Radmard S, et al. Clinical utilization of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis (ME) multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Front Neurol. 2019;10:281. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [33] Naccache SN, et al. One Year in the Life of a Rapid Syndromic Panel for Meningitis/Encephalitis: a Pediatric Tertiary Care Facility’s Experience. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(5):e01940–17. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Rests on an assumption: The positivity rates and pathogen distributions in other published studies are comparable to the present setting.
- Interpretationown data
Rapid detection of N. meningitidis, H. influenzae, or L. monocytogenes was important for optimal clinical management, including rapid implementation of post-exposure treatments in contact persons.
“was important for optimal clinical management including rapid implementation of post exposure treatments in contact persons (antibiotic prophylaxis and/or vaccination).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Premisecitation
Among reasons for failure of primary culture is antibiotic administration prior to lumbar puncture.
“Among the reasons for failure of primary culture is antibiotic administration prior to lumbar puncture [39].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [39] Brouwer MC, Tunkel AR, van de Beek D. Epidemiology, diagnosis, and antimicrobial treatment of acute bacterial meningitis. Clin Microbiol Rev. 2010;23(3):467–92. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
The HHV-6 detections in those two samples were regarded as false-positive.
“Presence of VZV (1.4 × 104 copies/ml) and H. influenzae was confirmed by specific real-time PCRs, but conventional assays were unable to detect HHV-6, and these results were thus regarded as false-positive.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationnone given
The FilmArray ME assay can easily be implemented in routine diagnostic workflows.
“The FilmArray ME assay is a fast and reliable diagnostic tool for the management of infectious meningitis and can easily be implemented in routine diagnostic workflows.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim - Interpretationown data
The data confirm the high negative predictive value of the multiplex PCR assay.
“our data confirm the high negative predictive value of the multiplex PCR assay that has been emphasized by others [33].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [33] Naccache SN, et al. One Year in the Life of a Rapid Syndromic Panel for Meningitis/Encephalitis: a Pediatric Tertiary Care Facility’s Experience. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(5):e01940–17. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
- Premisecitation
One major benefit of molecular multiplex testing is the fast generation of results with high negative predictive values.
“Since one major benefit of molecular multiplex testing is the fast generation of results with high negative predictive values [33]”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [33] Naccache SN, et al. One Year in the Life of a Rapid Syndromic Panel for Meningitis/Encephalitis: a Pediatric Tertiary Care Facility’s Experience. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(5):e01940–17. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationown data
Our strategy of risk-assessment driven selection of samples might help to avoid unnecessary testing if bacterial pathogens are suspected.
“Beyond that, our strategy of risk-assessment driven selection of samples might help to avoid unnecessary testing if bacterial pathogens are suspected.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Premisecitation
Culture-negative yet PCR-positive infectious meningitis cases caused by S. agalactiae have been described previously.
“Notably, culture negative yet PCR positive infectious meningitis cases caused by S. agalactiae have been described previously”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites [40] Negre VL, et al. Culture-negative neonatal meningitis and endocarditis caused by Streptococcus agalactiae. J Clin Microbiol. 2004;42(10):4889–90. source
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- cites [41] Lu JJ, et al. Use of PCR with universal primers and restriction endonuclease digestions for detection and identification of common bacterial pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid. J Clin Microbiol. 2000;38(6):2076–80. source
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- cites [42] Kristiansen BE, et al. Rapid diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis by polymerase chain reaction. Lancet. 1991;337(8757):1568–9. source
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- Premisecitation
Both Naccache et al. and Radmard et al. reported massive overutilization of the test when no eligibility criteria was implemented.
“However, both Naccache et al. and Radmard et al. reported massive overutilization of the test, when no eligibility criteria was implemented [32, 33].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [32] Radmard S, et al. Clinical utilization of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis (ME) multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Front Neurol. 2019;10:281. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [33] Naccache SN, et al. One Year in the Life of a Rapid Syndromic Panel for Meningitis/Encephalitis: a Pediatric Tertiary Care Facility’s Experience. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(5):e01940–17. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Premisecitation
In the Radmard et al. study, more than one third of samples analyzed were taken from patients without suspicion for infectious meningitis/encephalitis.
“In the latter study, more than one third of samples analyzed were taken from patients without suspicion for infectious meningitis/encephalitis.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [32] Radmard S, et al. Clinical utilization of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis (ME) multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Front Neurol. 2019;10:281. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationcitation
In a worst-case scenario, Herpesviridae detection in multiplex PCR testing might lead to delayed diagnosis of the actual underlying disease.
“Thus, in a worst case scenario, Herpesviridae detection in multiplex PCR testing might lead to delayed diagnosis of the actual underlying disease, as described by Gomez et al. for a patient suffering from tuberculous meningitis [14].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [14] Gomez CA, et al. Delayed Diagnosis of Tuberculous Meningitis Misdiagnosed as Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Encephalitis With the FilmArray Syndromic Polymerase Chain Reaction Panel. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2017;4(1):ofw245. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Interpretationreasoning
It cannot be ruled out that pathogens have been overlooked in some samples.
“Thus, we cannot rule out, that pathogens have been overlooked in some samples.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
- Interpretationnone given
An obvious limitation of any syndromic molecular panel testing approach is the limited number of pathogens included in the panel.
“An obvious limitation of any syndromic molecular panel testing approach is the limited number of pathogens included into the panel.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
- Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 28
- May combine two claims. 45
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
Findingown dataOf the 171 samples, 117 had abnormality in gram-stain (116 with leukocytes, one with bacteria seen without evidence for leukocytes) and 54 were selected because suspicion of infectious meningitis was communicated by clinicians.
“Of those, n = 117 samples had abnormality in gram-stain (n = 116 samples with leukocytes, one samples with bacteria seen without evidence for leukocytes) and n = 54 samples were selected as suspicion of infectious meningitis was communicated by clinicians.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataIn four samples, potentially false positive results of FilmArray ME panel occurred, including three samples positive for bacterial pathogens by multiplex PCR that remained culture negative.
“In four samples, potentially false positive results of FilmArray ME panel occurred, including three samples tested positive for bacterial pathogens by multiplex PCR that remained culture negative.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
Findingown dataSamples analyzed by FilmArray ME were also tested by reference methods: culture only (n=45), molecular analysis only (n=20), or both methods (n=106).
“Samples analyzed by FilmArray ME were also tested by reference methods: culture only (n = 45), molecular analysis only (n = 20) or both methods (n = 106).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataLeucocytes were seen in 122/147 (82.99%) samples, bacteria in 15/147 (10.20%) samples, and yeast in 1/147 (0.68%) of those samples.
“Leucocytes were seen in 122/147 (82.99%) samples, bacteria in 15/147 (10.20%) samples and yeast in 1/147 (0.68%) of those samples.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataWithin the subset of samples selected upon request by clinicians (n=54), positive FilmArray ME results were obtained in 44/54 samples (positivity rate=22.22%, sensitivity=91.67%, specificity=97.62%).
“Within the subset of samples selected upon request by clinicians, (n = 54), positive Film Array ME results were obtained in 44/54 samples (positivity rate = 22.22%, sensitivity = 91.67%, specificity = 97.62%).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Findingown dataBacterial culture was performed in 2682 samples, molecular diagnostic in 1891 samples, and 50 samples were sent for serology.
“In detail, bacterial culture was performed in n = 2682 samples, molecular diagnostic was performed in n = 1891 samples and n = 50 samples were sent for serology purpose.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataIn two samples, FilmArray analysis detected two pathogens (VZV and HHV-6, and H. influenzae and HHV-6, respectively).
“In two samples, FilmArray analysis detected two pathogens (VZV and HHV-6, and H. influenzae and HHV-6, respectively).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Findingown dataIn the subset of 30 samples selected upon clinical request, 6/30 had positive gram stain (20.00%) and 25/30 had negative gram stain (83.33%).
“6/30 samples of that subset had positive gram stain (20.00%), whereas 25/30 samples had negative gram stain (83.33%).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataPresence of VZV (1.4 × 104 copies/ml) and H. influenzae was confirmed by specific real-time PCRs.
“Presence of VZV (1.4 × 104 copies/ml) and H. influenzae was confirmed by specific real-time PCRs, but conventional assays were unable to detect HHV-6, and these results were thus regarded as false-positive.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataDouble detection occurred in two FilmArray ME positive samples.
“Double detection occurred in two samples.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataThe overall positivity rate was 5.97%, with positive results in 137/2682 samples analyzed by culture (5.11%) and 139/1891 samples analyzed by molecular methods (7.35%).
“The overall positivity rate was 5.97% with positive results in 137/2682 samples analyzed by culture (5.11%) and 139/1891 positive results in samples analyzed by molecular methods (7.35%).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataBacterial pathogens were detected in 30/56 (53.57%) and viral pathogens in 27/56 (48.21%) of FilmArray ME positive samples.
“Bacterial pathogens were detected in 30/56 (53.57%) and viral pathogens were detected in 27/56 (48.21%) of positive samples.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataSpecific real-time PCR was performed in the two samples positive for S. pneumoniae and S. agalactiae, but no signal was obtained.
“Specific real-time PCR was performed in the two samples positive for S. pneumoniae and S. agalactiae, but no signal was obtained.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataOverall, gram stain was performed in 147/171 samples.
“Overall, gram stain was performed in 147/171 samples.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataWithin the subset of samples selected for leucocytes seen in gram stain (n=116), positive FilmArray ME results were obtained in 44/116 samples (positivity rate 37.93%, sensitivity=99.45%, specificity=10.96%).
“Within the subset of samples selected for leucocytes seen in gram stain (n = 116), positive Film Array ME results were obtained in 44/116 samples (positivity rate 37.93%, sensitivity = 99.45%, specificity = 10.96%).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataIn 24/54 (44.44%) of samples selected upon clinical request, gram stain and primary bacterial culture were not performed because suspicion for viral infection was communicated.
“Of note, in 24/54(44.44%) of samples selected upon clinical request, gram stain and primary bacterial culture was not performed as suspicion for viral infection was communicated.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataNo bacterial 16S-rRNA was detected in the sample positive for S. pneumoniae in SepsiTest®-UMD (Molzym).
“Also, no bacterial 16S-rRNA was detected in the sample positive for S. pneumoniae in SepsiTest®-UMD (Molzym).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataNeither the laboratory developed real-time PCR assay nor a commercially available real-time PCR assay yielded a positive result for the HSV-1 FilmArray positive sample.
“Neither our laboratory developed real-time PCR assay, nor a commercially available real-time PCR assay yielded a positive result (see Table 1 for assay details).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Findingown dataOver a period of 18 months, the laboratory received 4623 CSF samples (2338 hospitalizations, 1601 individuals).
“Over a period of 18 months we received a total of n = 4623 CSF samples (2338 hospitalizations, 1601 individuals), including samples sent for both molecular diagnostic and bacterial culture as well as samples sent only for either purpose.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataWithin the subset of samples selected for positive gram stain, organisms were seen in 16/117 samples (bacteria in 15/117 (12.82%), yeast in 1/117 (0.85%, positivity rate=13.63%, sensitivity=22.73%, specificity=91.78%).
“Organisms have been seen in 16/117 samples selected for positive gram stain (bacteria in 15/117 samples (12.82%), yeast in 1/117 samples (0.85%, positivity rate = 13.63%, sensitivity = 22.73%, specificity = 91.78%).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
Findingown dataIn this study, pathogens not included in the panel were detected by comparator assays in 10 samples: Bacillus sp., CoNS, S. aureus, and K. pneumoniae grew on culture media, whereas BK virus and Streptococcus spp. were detected by PCR.
“In our study, we detected pathogens that are not included in the panel by comparator assays in 10 samples: Bacillus sp., CoNS, S. aureus, and K. pneumoniae grew on culture media, whereas BK virus and Streptococcus spp. were detected by PCR.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn the multicenter evaluation study, N. meningitides and L. monocytogenes were detected in none of the samples.
“Most notably, N. meningitides, a worldwide leading meningitis pathogen, and L. monocytogenes detected in none of the samples [6].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [6] Leber AL, et al. Multicenter evaluation of BioFire FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel for detection of Bacteria, viruses, and yeast in cerebrospinal fluid specimens. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(9):2251–61. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationInfectious meningitis is a serious threat with high morbidity and mortality rates.
“Infectious meningitis is a serious threat with high morbidity and mortality rates [1–4].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checked- cites [1] Lee BE, Davies HD. Aseptic meningitis. Curr Opin Infect Dis. 2007;20(3):272–7. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [2] Costerus JM, et al. Community-acquired bacterial meningitis. Curr Opin Infect Dis. 2017;30(1):135–41. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [3] McGill F, Griffiths MJ, Solomon T. Viral meningitis: current issues in diagnosis and treatment. Curr Opin Infect Dis. 2017;30(2):248–56. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [4] Almuhayawi M, et al. Identification of microorganisms by FilmArray and matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization-time of flight mass spectrometry prior to positivity in the blood culture system. J Clin Microbiol. 2014;52(9):3230–6. source
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn bacterial meningitis, patient outcome can be optimized through immediate antibiotic treatment, and fast and reliable diagnostic can be crucial.
“In bacterial meningitis, patient outcome can be optimized through immediate antibiotic treatment, thus fast and reliable diagnostic can be crucial [2, 5].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [2] Costerus JM, et al. Community-acquired bacterial meningitis. Curr Opin Infect Dis. 2017;30(1):135–41. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [5] Fitch MT, van de Beek D. Emergency diagnosis and treatment of adult meningitis. Lancet Infect Dis. 2007;7(3):191–200. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn comparator studies, viruses were detected most frequently (83.8-54.46% of positive samples) followed by bacteria (37.62-15.21% of positive samples, p < 0.0001).
“In contrast, in the comparator studies viruses were detected most frequently (83.8 -54.46% of positive samples) followed by bacteria (37.62 - 15.21% of positive samples, p < 0.0001).”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 4 sources checked- cites [6] Leber AL, et al. Multicenter evaluation of BioFire FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel for detection of Bacteria, viruses, and yeast in cerebrospinal fluid specimens. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(9):2251–61. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [7] Tarai B, Das P. FilmArray(R) meningitis/encephalitis (ME) panel, a rapid molecular platform for diagnosis of CNS infections in a tertiary care hospital in North India: one-and-half-year review. Neurol Sci. 2019;40(1):81–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [32] Radmard S, et al. Clinical utilization of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis (ME) multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Front Neurol. 2019;10:281. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [33] Naccache SN, et al. One Year in the Life of a Rapid Syndromic Panel for Meningitis/Encephalitis: a Pediatric Tertiary Care Facility’s Experience. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(5):e01940–17. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The positivity rates and pathogen distributions in other published studies are comparable to the present setting.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe FilmArray ME assay is a fast and reliable diagnostic tool for the management of infectious meningitis.
“The FilmArray ME assay is a fast and reliable diagnostic tool for the management of infectious meningitis and can easily be implemented in routine diagnostic workflows.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationIn the multicenter evaluation study, n=1560 samples were analyzed by FilmArray ME and the overall positivity rate was 8.7%; bacteria were detected in 16.2% of positive samples, viruses in 83.8%, and yeast in 3.7%.
“b In the multicenter evaluation study [6] n = 1560 samples were analyzed by Film Array ME and the overall positivity rate was 8.7%. Bacteria were detected in 16.2% of positive samples, viruses in 83.8% of positive samples and yeast in 3.7% of positive samples.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [6] Leber AL, et al. Multicenter evaluation of BioFire FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel for detection of Bacteria, viruses, and yeast in cerebrospinal fluid specimens. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(9):2251–61. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationThe remaining uncertainty in interpretation of results is a key point in the controversial discussion concerning the clinical utility of syndromic testing approaches in infectious meningitis/encephalitis.
“Aside from the inarguably higher costs of multiplex molecular detection methods compared to standard laboratory procedures like bacterial culture, the remaining uncertainty in interpretation of results is a key point in the controversial discussion concerning the clinical utility of such syndromic testing approaches in infectious meningitis/encephalitis [15].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [15] Dien Bard J, Alby K. Point-Counterpoint: Meningitis/Encephalitis Syndromic Testing in the Clinical Laboratory. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(4):e00018. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationTarai et al. reported a positivity rate of 10.4% in n=969 CSF samples analyzed; bacteria were detected in 37.2%, viruses in 54.46%, and yeast in 6.93% of positive samples.
“c Tarai et al. [7] reported a positivity rate of 10.4% in n = 969 CSF samples analyzed. In their study, bacteria were detected in 37.2%, viruses in 54.46% and yeast in 6.93% of positive samples, respectively.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [7] Tarai B, Das P. FilmArray(R) meningitis/encephalitis (ME) panel, a rapid molecular platform for diagnosis of CNS infections in a tertiary care hospital in North India: one-and-half-year review. Neurol Sci. 2019;40(1):81–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationStudies on prospective clinical specimens indicating the right patient population or determining the ideal testing approach are missing.
“Yet, studies on prospective clinical specimens indicating the right patient population or determining the ideal testing approach are missing [15].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [15] Dien Bard J, Alby K. Point-Counterpoint: Meningitis/Encephalitis Syndromic Testing in the Clinical Laboratory. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(4):e00018. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
PremisecitationBoth false positive and false negative detections have been reported throughout studies of FilmArray ME.
“Admittedly, both false positive and false negative detections have been reported throughout the studies, with one example of an erroneously diagnosed HSV-1 meningitis in a patient with an underlying tuberculous meningitis [14] and one study indicating a potential of missing viral infections in a pediatric cohort [10].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [14] Gomez CA, et al. Delayed Diagnosis of Tuberculous Meningitis Misdiagnosed as Herpes Simplex Virus-1 Encephalitis With the FilmArray Syndromic Polymerase Chain Reaction Panel. Open Forum Infect Dis. 2017;4(1):ofw245. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [10] Graf EH, Farquharson MV, Cardenas AM. Comparative evaluation of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis molecular panel in a pediatric population. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 2017;87(1):92–4. source
Not checked in the free run.
Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataCorrelation of FilmArray ME test results and underlying clinical symptoms requires experienced users and awareness of potentially false negative or false positive results.
“However, correlation of test results and underlying clinical symptoms requires experienced users and the awareness of potentially false negative or false positive results.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationNaccache et al. observed an overall positivity rate of 13.43% of n=253 samples tested, with bacterial pathogens in 26.47% and viral pathogens in 73.52%; no yeast were found.
“e In a prospective study monitoring unrestricted physician ordered testing, Naccache et al. observed an overall positivity rate of 13.43% of n = 253 samples tested, with bacterial pathogens in 26.47% and viral pathogens in 73.52%. No yeast were found in that study”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe positivity rate of 32% in this study is higher than in other published studies and substantially higher than the multicenter evaluation study and three other studies that reported positivity rates under 15% (p < 0.0001).
“which is higher than in other published studies [6, 7, 9–12, 34–38] and substantially higher compared to the multicenter evaluation study [6] and three other studies [7, 32, 33], that reported positivity rates of under 15% (p < 0.0001).”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 10 sources checked- cites [6] Leber AL, et al. Multicenter evaluation of BioFire FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel for detection of Bacteria, viruses, and yeast in cerebrospinal fluid specimens. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(9):2251–61. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [7] Tarai B, Das P. FilmArray(R) meningitis/encephalitis (ME) panel, a rapid molecular platform for diagnosis of CNS infections in a tertiary care hospital in North India: one-and-half-year review. Neurol Sci. 2019;40(1):81–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [9] Launes C, et al. Utility of FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis panel during outbreak of brainstem encephalitis caused by Enterovirus in Catalonia in 2016. J Clin Microbiol. 2017;55(1):336–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [10] Graf EH, Farquharson MV, Cardenas AM. Comparative evaluation of the FilmArray meningitis/encephalitis molecular panel in a pediatric population. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 2017;87(1):92–4. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [11] Arora HS, et al. Enhanced identification of group B streptococcus and Escherichia Coli in young infants with meningitis using the Biofire Filmarray meningitis/encephalitis panel. Pediatr Infect Dis J. 2017;36(7):685–7. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [12] Wootton SH, et al. Enhancing pathogen identification in patients with meningitis and a negative gram stain using the BioFire FilmArray((R)) meningitis/encephalitis panel. Ann Clin Microbiol Antimicrob. 2016;15:26. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [34] Hanson KE, et al. Preclinical assessment of a fully automated multiplex PCR panel for detection of central nervous system pathogens. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(3):785–7. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [35] Messacar K, et al. Potential clinical impact of the film array meningitis encephalitis panel in children with suspected central nervous system infections. Diagn Microbiol Infect Dis. 2016;86(1):118–20. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [36] Anand V, et al. Closing the brief case: neonatal meningitis caused by listeria monocytogenes diagnosed by multiplex molecular panel. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(12):3075. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [37] Anand V, et al. The brief case: neonatal meningitis caused by listeria monocytogenes diagnosed by multiplex molecular panel. J Clin Microbiol. 2016;54(12):2846–9. source
Not checked in the free run.
- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Rests on an assumption: The positivity rates and pathogen distributions in other published studies are comparable to the present setting.
May combine two claims.
PremisecitationRadmard et al. reported a retrospective review of n=705 CSF specimens tested with an overall positivity rate of 6.5%; bacteria were detected in 15.21%, viruses in 80.43%, and yeast in 2.17% of positive samples.
“d Radmard et al. reported a retrospective review of n = 705 CSF specimens tested with an overall positivity rate of 6.5%. In that study, bacteria were detected in 15.21%, viruses in 80.43% and yeast in 2.17% of positive samples, respectively.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
PremisecitationHerpesviridae feature life-long latency after primary infection, and subclinical reactivation with replication can be seen in conjunction with different underlying clinical conditions.
“As these viruses feature life-long latency after primary infection, subclinical reactivation with replication can be seen in conjunction with different underlying clinical conditions [43, 44].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [43] Ericsdotter AC, et al. Reactivation of herpes simplex type 1 in pneumococcal meningitis. J Clin Virol. 2015;66:100–2. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [44] Labska K, et al. Presence of herpesvirus DNA in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with tick-borne encephalitis and enteroviral meningoencephalitis. J Med Virol. 2015;87(7):1235–40. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
InterpretationreasoningOur restriction approach can be an easy and effective alternative.
“Therefore we believe that our restriction approach can be an easy and effective alternative.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataCorrelation of test results and underlying clinical symptoms requires experienced users and awareness of potentially false negative or false positive results.
“However, correlation of test results and underlying clinical symptoms requires experienced users and the awareness of potentially false negative or false positive results.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationreasoningThere is agreement that restriction of the assay might be helpful for enhancing its clinical utility.
“Taken together, there is agreement that restriction of the assay might be helpful for enhancing its clinical utility.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Study design and conductreasoningOur implementation approach is independent from approval by infectious disease specialists and it does not involve any ordering modifications.
“Our implementation approach is independent from approval by infectious disease specialists and it does not involve any ordering modifications.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimMay combine two claims.
InterpretationcitationOverreliance on negative results might be crucial especially in geographical regions with unusual etiologic agents of meningitis, and this might yield ineffective testing.
“Even though the FilmArray ME panel includes a broad range of pathogens, overreliance on negative results might be crucial especially in geographical regions with unusual etiologic agents of meningitis this might yield to ineffective testing [7].”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [7] Tarai B, Das P. FilmArray(R) meningitis/encephalitis (ME) panel, a rapid molecular platform for diagnosis of CNS infections in a tertiary care hospital in North India: one-and-half-year review. Neurol Sci. 2019;40(1):81–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe data gain new insights in how syndromic panel testing may be implemented into laboratory routine and therefore may help to identify the ideal approach to ensure its clinical utility.
“Nevertheless we believe that our data gain new insights in how syndromic panel testing may be implemented into laboratory routine and therefore may help to identify the ideal approach to ensure its clinical utility.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
May combine two claims.
Study design and conductnone givenThe sample selection strategy was mainly based on gram-stain abnormalities, ensuring on-spot decision making, but not representing the ideal method for leucocyte detection.
“Notably, sample selection strategy was mainly based on gram-stain abnormalities ensuring on-spot decision making, but not representing the ideal method for leucocyte detection.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
May combine two claims.
Study design and conductown dataNo clinical data was analyzed, hence effects on patient outcome or antibiotic utilization in this study remain unclear.
“Moreover, no clinical data was analyzed, hence effects on patient outcome or antibiotic utilization in our study remain unclear.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimMay combine two claims.
Study design and conductnone givenNot all samples were assessed by all comparator assays; for samples not selected for FilmArray ME analysis, diagnostic was performed according to orders and no additional assays were performed.
“Furthermore, we did not assess all samples by all comparator assays, in particular for samples that were not selected for FilmArray ME analysis, diagnostic was performed according to orders and no additional assays were performed.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationThe authors of the latter study advise against potential overreliance on test results and suggest restriction strategies within the scope of diagnostic stewardship programs.
“The authors advice against potential overreliance of test results and suggest restriction strategies within the scope of diagnostic stewardship programs [49].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [49] Patel R, Fang FC. Diagnostic stewardship: opportunity for a laboratory-infectious diseases partnership. Clin Infect Dis. 2018;67(5):799–801. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).
Study design and conductreasoningThe relevance of HHV-6 detection in this study remains unclear in its consequences for patient management and outcome.
“The relevance of HHV-6 detection in our study remains unclear in its consequences for patient management and outcome.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
Study design and conductnone givenNo sample randomization was done.
“no sample randomization was done.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationTan et al. describe a potential overutilization of the assay in children, but point out the benefits of early diagnosis of a viral etiology, especially in terms of antibiotic usage.
“Corroborate findings were reported by Tan et al., who describe a potential overutilization of the assay in children, but yet point out the benefits of early diagnosis of a viral etiology, especially in terms of antibiotic usage [50].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [50] Tan NW, et al. Cerebrospinal fluid white cell count: discriminatory or otherwise for enteroviral meningitis in infants and young children? J Neuro-Oncol. 2016;22(2):213–7.
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).
InterpretationcitationMolecular diagnostics are important for optimization of patient management.
“underlining the importance of molecular diagnostic for optimization of patient management [40–42].”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked- cites [40] Negre VL, et al. Culture-negative neonatal meningitis and endocarditis caused by Streptococcus agalactiae. J Clin Microbiol. 2004;42(10):4889–90. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [41] Lu JJ, et al. Use of PCR with universal primers and restriction endonuclease digestions for detection and identification of common bacterial pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid. J Clin Microbiol. 2000;38(6):2076–80. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [42] Kristiansen BE, et al. Rapid diagnosis of meningococcal meningitis by polymerase chain reaction. Lancet. 1991;337(8757):1568–9. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).
InterpretationcitationHerpesviridae detection in CSF has questionable relevance in general.
“one should also consider the questionable relevance of Herpesviridae detection in CSF in general.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked- cites [43] Ericsdotter AC, et al. Reactivation of herpes simplex type 1 in pneumococcal meningitis. J Clin Virol. 2015;66:100–2. source
Not checked in the free run.
- cites [44] Labska K, et al. Presence of herpesvirus DNA in cerebrospinal fluid of patients with tick-borne encephalitis and enteroviral meningoencephalitis. J Med Virol. 2015;87(7):1235–40. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationDespite contradictory positions, the authors agree that the FilmArray ME panel ensures reduced turn-around time of molecular results and therefore might be beneficial for patient outcome.
“Despite their contradictory positions on the use of the FilmArray ME panel in diagnostic laboratory routine, the authors agree on the fact that it ensures reduced turn-around time of molecular results and therefore might be beneficial for patient outcome.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [15] Dien Bard J, Alby K. Point-Counterpoint: Meningitis/Encephalitis Syndromic Testing in the Clinical Laboratory. J Clin Microbiol. 2018;56(4):e00018. source
Not checked in the free run.
Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataIt cannot be excluded that in this sample, FilmArray ME detection of S. agalactiae was indeed false positive and the communication of the test result might have led to a dispensable antibiotic administration.
“Otherwise, it cannot be excluded that in our sample, FilmArray ME detection of S.agalactiae was indeed false positive and the communication of the test result might have led to a dispensable antibiotic administration.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataThe FilmArray ME is a useful tool for fast and reliable diagnostic of infectious meningitis in a real-life diagnostic setting and can be easily implemented in routine diagnostic workflows.
“The FilmArray ME is a useful tool for fast and reliable diagnostic of infectious meningitis in a real life diagnostic setting and can be easily implemented in routine diagnostic workflows.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
- Rests on an assumption: The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
May combine two claims.
Interpretationown dataDetection of S. aureus, K. pneumoniae, and BK virus may account for serious infections.
“detection of S. aureus, K. pneumoniae and BK-Virus may account for serious infections.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.
Study design and conductnone givenThis study focused on the implementation of the assay into the laboratory workflow, and no clinical data was analyzed.
“As this study focused on the implementation of the assay into the laboratory workflow, no clinical data was analyzed.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimClassified as probably not a substantial claim.
InterpretationreasoningImplementation of criteria such as approval by infectious disease specialists might slow-down the whole workflow.
“however, implementation of such criteria might slow-down the whole workflow.”
Quote in the paperSubstantial claimProbably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.
PremisecitationEichinger et al. reported that availability of rapid diagnostic tests enhances administration of specific treatment and reduces inadequate usage of antibiotics, but a structured approach in clinical implementation is needed.
“Eichinger et al. reported their findings of implementation of the FilmArray ME panel as a POCT in children with suspected meningitis in a children hospital [51]. They highlight that though the availability of rapid diagnostic tests enhances administration of specific treatment and thus reduces inadequate usage of antibiotics, a structured approach in clinical implementation of the assay is needed.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked- cites [51] Eichinger A, et al. Clinical benefits of introducing real-time multiplex PCR for cerebrospinal fluid as routine diagnostic at a tertiary care pediatric center. Infection. 2019;47(1):51–8. source
Not checked in the free run.
May combine two claims.
Study design and conductreasoningClinical specimens were tested prospectively, but the selection strategy might exhibit a selection bias.
“Clinical specimens were tested prospectively, yet our selection strategy might exhibit a selection bias.”
Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim- Rests on an assumption: The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
The paper relies on this without support.
A syndromic panel testing approach like the FilmArray ME can accelerate diagnosis and therefore decrease the time to pathogen specific therapy.
“A syndromic panel testing approach like the FilmArray ME can accelerate diagnosis and therefore decrease the time to pathogen specific therapy.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Direct identification of viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid by molecular testing methods may substantially decrease the time to pathogen specific therapy.
“Direct identification of viral, bacterial and fungal pathogens in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by molecular testing methods may substantially decrease the time to pathogen specific therapy.”
The paper relies on this without support.
There is agreement that substantially decreased time-to-result has a potential benefit for patient outcome whenever involving an adaptation of antibiotic treatment.
“Nevertheless, there is agreement regarding the substantially decreased time-to-result exhibiting a potential benefit for patient outcome whenever involving an adaptation of antibiotic treatment.”
The paper relies on this without support.
Antimicrobial susceptibility testing is needed for management of infectious meningitis.
“Moreover, considering the need for antimicrobial susceptibility testing, the use of molecular tests as a stand-alone diagnostic cannot be recommended.”
The paper relies on this without support.
The selection of CSF samples based on gram stain and/or urgent clinical suspicion identifies samples with a high pretest probability of infectious bacterial meningitis.
“FilmArray ME analysis was restricted to CSF-samples with a high pretest probability of infectious (bacterial) meningitis. Decision was made in our laboratory based on gram stain and/or urgent suspicion of infectious meningitis communicated by clinicians”
The paper relies on this without support.
The local comparator assays (culture and specific in-house PCRs) are valid reference methods for pathogen detection in CSF.
“between the FilmArray ME panel results and our comparator assays”
“compared to the local reference methods”
The paper relies on this without support.
The positivity rates and pathogen distributions in other published studies are comparable to the present setting.
“higher than in other published studies”
“more than in other published studies”
Claims other papers make about this one
Each is checked against this paper’s own text: does it say what the citing paper says it does?
Previous studies have suggested that precautions should be taken when diagnosing a patient solely on FA/ME results and that additional confirmatory testing is still needed.
“Previous studies have suggested that precautions should be taken when diagnosing a patient based solely on FA/ME results and that additional confirmatory testing is still needed (17, 23, 24).”
From Evaluation of the Novel CE-IVD-Marked Multiplex PCR QIAstat-Dx Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel (2023) · cites this paper as [24]
In this study, with a relatively small sample size, the positive and negative percent agreements of QIA/ME and FA/ME were slightly better than the specificity and sensitivity values seen in previous studies evaluating FA/ME.
“In this study, with a relatively small sample size, the positive and negative percent agreements of QIA/ME and FA/ME (Tables 3 to 5) were slightly better than the specificity and sensitivity values seen in previous studies evaluating FA/ME (17–24).”
From Evaluation of the Novel CE-IVD-Marked Multiplex PCR QIAstat-Dx Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel (2023) · cites this paper as [24]
A multicenter evaluation of the FilmArray ME panel reported 100% sensitivity for most bacterial pathogens and over 99% specificity.
“a multicenter evaluation of the FilmArray ME panel reported 100% sensitivity for most bacterial pathogens and over 99% specificity9.”
From Clinical Impact of Cerebrospinal Fluid Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) Testing in Children with Suspected Central Nervous System Infection (2025) · cites this paper as [9]
The Background and the Results comparison discuss a separate multicenter evaluation, but do not give its sensitivity or specificity. The 96.30% sensitivity and 96.58% specificity in Clinical performance are from this paper's own laboratory study; they cannot verify the claimed figures for the multicenter evaluation (searched: 100% sensitivity, over 99% specificity, multicenter evaluation). (LLM, conf=0.76)
Experimental — accuracy not yet measured
Self-check
Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.
Clinician-requested positivity rate does not match its count
MajorThe reported 44 positive samples out of 54 would give 81.48%, not 22.22%. The reported percentage would correspond to 12 out of 54.
Reported 22.22 · recomputed 81.481481
“positive Film Array ME results were obtained in 44/54 samples (positivity rate = 22.22%, sensitivity = 91.67%, specificity = 97.62%).”
Gram-stain counts exceed the stated subset
MinorThe stated positive- and negative-Gram-stain counts add to 31, but the subset contains only 30 samples.
Reported 30 · recomputed 31
“6/30 samples of that subset had positive gram stain (20.00%), whereas 25/30 samples had negative gram stain (83.33%).”
Cites
Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Antimicrobial Treatment of Acute Bacterial Meningitis
Brouwer, M. C., Tunkel, A. R., & van de Beek, D. (2010) · Clinical Microbiology Reviews · doi:10.1128/cmr.00070-09 · Cited by 930 · see citing works
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Flagged first, then by citations
Research works printed but not linked: 1
- Kniehl E, Dörries H, Geiss RK, Matz B, Neumann-Häfelin D, Pfister HW, Prange H, Schlüter B, Spellerberg FB. Spencker MIQ 17: Qualitätsstandards in der mikrobiologisch-infektiologischen Diagnostik: Infektionen des Zentralnervensystems; 2001.
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Bacterial Meningitis in the Absence of Pleocytosis in Children: A Systematic Review
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Evaluation of the Novel CE-IVD-Marked Multiplex PCR QIAstat-Dx Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel
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“Published positivity rates for CSF multiplex PCR range from 18.8% to 32.8% 10-12 , aligning with our positivity rate of 24.3%.”
InfluentialBal, A., Saz, E. U., Arslan, S. Y., Atik, S., Bayturan, S., Yurtseven, A., Gazi, H., Cicek, C., Kurugol, Z., & Bal, Z. S. (2022) · Journal of Pediatric Infectious Diseases · doi:10.1055/s-0042-1756711 · Cited by 1 · see citing works
- Authors
- Pfefferle, S., Christner, M., Aepfelbacher, M., Lütgehetmann, M., & Rohde, H.
- Affiliations
- University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf (DE)
- Corresponding author
- Pfefferle, Susanne
- Venue
- BMC Infectious Diseases
- Published
- 2020-02-22
- Volume
- 20
- Issue
- 1
- Pages
- 170-170
- ISSN
- 1471-2334 (ISSN-L)
- PMC
- PMC7036261
- OpenAlex
- W3012853201
- Semantic Scholar
- 1384c024fbf1144cd6e8eef44f3277e4835063d0
- Cited by
- 36
- References
- 50
- Citations by year
- 2026: 4 · 2025: 4 · 2024: 2 · 2023: 5 · 2022: 10 · 2021: 7 · 2020: 2 · 2019: 1 · 2018: 1
- FWCI
- 3.98
- Type
- journal article
- Language
- en
- Open access
- gold
- doi.org
- Locations
- BMC Infectious Diseases (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- Research Square (acceptedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed Central (publishedVersion, cc-by)
- PubMed (publishedVersion)
- DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals) (submittedVersion, cc-by-sa)
- Topics
- Life Sciences › Biochemistry, Genetics and Molecular Biology › Clinical Biochemistry › Bacterial Identification and Susceptibility Testing
- Life Sciences › Immunology and Microbiology › Microbiology › Bacterial Infections and Vaccines
- Health Sciences › Medicine › Infectious Diseases › Infectious Encephalopathies and Encephalitis
- Keywords
- infectious meningitis, encephalitis, cerebrospinal fluid, molecular diagnosis, sample selection strategy, diagnostic accuracy, pathogenic bacteria, viral pathogens, false positives, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, clinical implementation
- MeSH terms
- Diagnostic Tests, Routine, Encephalitis, Gentian Violet, Germany, Hospitals, University, Humans, Laboratories, Meningitis, Phenazines, Prospective Studies, Sensitivity and Specificity, Staining and Labeling, Reproducibility of Results, Molecular Diagnostic Techniques, Multiplex Polymerase Chain Reaction, Tertiary Care Centers
About these checks
Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.
Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-10.
Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-10.
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