Amrita Hospital, Kochi has introduced free advanced CSF PCR testing for patients suspected of eosinophilic meningitis. The test is aimed at accurately detecting Angiostrongylus cantonensis, the parasite responsible for this serious condition.

The initiative is being implemented with the support of the Kerala Association of Neurologists (KAN). The new free testing facility was announced by Dr. K.V. Beena, Additional Medical Superintendent, Amrita Hospital, Kochi, during a Neuroinfections workshop held at IMA House, Kochi.

The testing is being carried out by a team led by Dr. Vinayan K.P., Head of the Department of Pediatric Neurology, along with Associate Professor Dr. Vaishakh Anand, Dr. V. Anil Kumar (Department of Microbiology), Dr. Sachin David (Molecular Biology Laboratory), and Dr. Lalitha Biswas (Amrita Centre for Nanosciences and Molecular Medicine).

Dr. Vinayan K.P. said the initiative will help in early diagnosis, ensuring timely treatment and reducing the risk of serious complications. He added that the facility, which ensures high accuracy and rapid diagnosis, is being introduced for the first time in the state and will serve as a significant intervention in the field of public health.