The Best Laboratory Specimens for Definitive Diagnosis of Meningococcal Infections

Question

The best laboratory specimens for definitive diagnosis of meningococcal infections are blood and:​
A)​CSF
B)​Saliva
C)​Urine
D)​Stool

Accepted Answer

CSF (cerebrospinal fluid) is the best laboratory specimen for definitive diagnosis of meningococcal infections. It can be obtained from a lumbar puncture and allows for direct detection of the bacteria responsible for the infection. Blood cultures can also be helpful in confirming the diagnosis, but CSF is considered the gold standard. Saliva, urine, and stool are not typically used for diagnosing meningococcal infections.

The best laboratory specimens for definitive diagnosis of meningococcal infections are blood and:​

The best laboratory specimens for definitive diagnosis of meningococcal infections are blood and: