[Multiplex PCR assay in spinal fluid to identify simultaneously bacterial pathogens associated to acute bacterial meningitis in Chilean children].

Background: Acute bacterial meningitis (ABM) is a serious disease that needs rapid diagnosis for an accurate treatment. The most important etiological agents are: Streptococcus pneumoniae, Neisseria meningitidis and Haemophilus influenzae type b. Overall pathogen detection rate in patients with ABM in Chile is 83%.