Final answer:
To diagnose enterovirus meningitis, CSF analysis through lumbar puncture with PCR and RT-PCR tests is recommended, while also considering white blood cell counts, glucose, and protein levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
To confirm the diagnosis of enterovirus meningitis, the recommended tests involve the analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) obtained through a lumbar puncture. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and reverse transcription-PCR (RT-PCR) are specific tests that can detect the presence of enteroviruses in the CSF.
While routine culture, Gram stain, and antigen detection by enzyme immunoassay are standard for diagnosing bacterial meningitis, for enterovirus meningitis PCR is more specific as enteroviruses are a group of RNA viruses.
Additionally, CSF analysis might include looking at white blood cell counts, glucose, and protein levels, which could also suggest viral infection if typical signs of bacterial infection (such as elevated polymorphonuclear neutrophils or low glucose) are not present.