Detecting Epstein–Barr Virus in CSF via Cell-Free Microbial DNA Sequencing

Broad, sensitive, culture-independent microbiologic testing is increasingly used to evaluate suspected central nervous system (CNS) infections. One such approach — metagenomic sequencing — analyzes all microbial DNA in a sample, allowing highly sensitive, simultaneous detection of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The downside of this approach is specificity: detecting an organism’s DNA does not necessarily mean the organism is causing disease.

To assess the clinical significance of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) detected through metagenomics, investigators conducted a retrospective study of 507 patients with suspected intracranial infections at 13 intensive care units in China (median age, 55; 65% men).