Key message
Infection of the central nervous system (CNS) are often challenging to diagnose; in particular it may be difficult to identify the causative pathogen. In an analysis of metabolites in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) from patients we have identified several molecules whose concentrations are preferentially elevated in meningoencephalitis due to varicella zoster virus (chicken pox virus, VZV) reactivation, but not in meningitis due to enteroviruses or VZV reactivation without CNS involvement.
Translational perspective
These results provide proof-of-concept for improving diagnostics of CNS infections by including meatbolites present in CSF.