Assessing the impact of a positive Biofire® FilmArray® Meningitis/Encephalitis Panel result on clinical management and outcomes

A rapid and accurate diagnosis of meningitis/encephalitis (ME) is required for early and effective intervention or adjustment of empirical treatment. This study retrospectively analyzed 485 records of patients hospitalized at the Padeh Poriya Medical Center during 2016−2020, due to a suspicion of ME. Pathogen distribution in cerebrospinal fluid samples, as determined using the BioFire® FilmArray ME Panel (MEP), is presented, as well as comparison of demographic and clinical characteristics, clinical management and outcomes of MEP⁺ (105) vs MEP⁻ (380) patients. Pathogen distribution correlated with that reported in the literature, with Enterovirus (62%) being the most common causative agent. MEP⁺ patients were significantly younger than MEP⁻ patients. Antibiotics use prior to lumbar puncture was significantly higher among MEP⁺ patients. MEP⁺ was associated with more frequent antibiotic change, compared to MEP⁻. While MEP⁺ contributed to early treatment adjustment or cessation, it did not necessarily impact the length of stay or patient outcomes.