How do you test for meningitis?

Spinal fluid tests: A patient's symptoms added to the findings on a doctor's exam, can usually suggest whether or not a patient has meningitis. Meningitis is inflammation and/or infection in the fluid and membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. To confirm the diagnosis, a sample of spinal fluid, taken from the lower back by putting a needle into the spine, can be tested for bacteria, viruses, fungi, etc...

Meningitis: Most common way to test is a lumbar puncture or spinal tap to analyze the spinal fluid.