PCR identification of the group A Neisseria meningitidis gene in cerebrospinal fluid

The aim of this study was to develop a PCR method for direct identification of Neisseria meningitidis serogroup A in cerebrospinal fluid. The assay ma kes use of unique sites within the gene cassette responsible for expression of the (alpha 1 --> 6)-linked N-acetyl-D-mannosamine-1-phosphate serogroup A capsule. A total of 67 different IV. meningitidis strains and 12 clinica l samples of CSF, culture positive for N. meningitidis, were examined. All the strains and samples of N. meningitidis serogroup A were correctly ident ified by an amplified PCR product of 519 bp. The PCR method for identificat ion is specific for the group A gene of N. meningitidis. The assay may cont ribute to reducing recurrent, devastating epidemics of meningococcal infect ion by providing a diagnostic tool for grouping in developing countries whe re problems with false negative cultures are common and vaccination against serogroup A meningococci may be required.